Negotiations for a Gaza ceasefire have made significant progress, with a final draft agreement reportedly submitted to both Hamas and the 'Israeli' government for approval, according to a senior official involved in the talks.

 

The breakthrough came in Doha after midnight following intensive discussions between 'Israeli' intelligence leaders, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, and Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Reuters reported. The Qatari Prime Minister also held talks with Hamas leaders to push for a resolution.

 

Earlier, Kadoura Fares, head of the Commission of Palestinian Detainees Affairs, revealed critical details of the first phase of the deal to Maan News. According to Fares, the agreement includes the release of 25 captives in exchange for 48 Palestinians who were re-arrested after being freed in the 2011 Shalit prisoner swap.

 

Additionally, approximately 200 Palestinians serving life sentences and around 1,000 detainees, including all children, women, and ill prisoners, are set to be released under the deal.

 

The proposed agreement, however, has drawn criticism. 'Israeli' news outlet Ynet quoted Nimrod Cohen’s father, a captive soldier, who stated, "Trump doesn’t want such a deal; it’s a reward for terrorism."

 

Earlier this month, Hamas reiterated its commitment to securing a ceasefire that aligns with the aspirations of the Palestinian people. The group emphasized ending aggression and protecting civilians amid escalating violence.

 

Efforts to finalize the ceasefire have intensified, with the US envoy meeting 'Israeli' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday to push for an agreement.

 

The proposed deal, if approved, would mark a significant step toward alleviating the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and addressing key demands from both sides.