Israel and Hamas Near Ceasefire Deal as Hostage Negotiations Advance

Talks in Doha, involving U.S. and regional mediators, show progress but face internal opposition within Israeli leadership.

Negotiations in Doha mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. are reportedly in advanced stages, with a deal described as closer than ever.
The proposed agreement includes a ceasefire, the release of 33 hostages held by Hamas, and the exchange of Palestinian detainees held by Israel.
Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden and incoming President Donald Trump have both pressured Israel and Hamas to finalize the deal before January 20.
Far-right members of Israel's coalition government, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, strongly oppose the deal, calling it a threat to national security.
Israeli military operations in Gaza continue, with heavy airstrikes reported even as negotiations progress, contributing to a dire humanitarian crisis in the region.