Hamas says it has agreed to ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar

Hamas has announced that Ismail Haniyeh, head of its political bureau, has told Qatari and Egyptian mediators that Hamas has agreed to their proposal for a ceasefire agreement.

A member of Hamas’ political bureau, Basem Naim, told newsmen that Hamas is waiting for an Israeli response to its agreement to a ceasefire and hostage deal proposed by Egypt and Qatar. 

As news spread in Gaza of Hamas’ announcement, there were celebrations in the streets in several places, including in Deir el Balah, central Gaza, and in Gaza City. 

A potential temporary ceasefire: The most recent framework, which Israel helped craft but has not fully agreed to, calls for the release of 20 to 33 hostages over several weeks in exchange for a temporary ceasefire.

It also calls for the release of Palestinian prisoners, followed by what sources described as the “restoration of sustainable calm” during which the remaining hostages, captive Israeli soldiers, and the bodies of hostages would be exchanged for more Palestinian prisoners.