The post Israel and Hamas sign hostage-ceasefire deal in Doha after mediators iron out final kinks appeared first on The Times of Israel.

A groundbreaking ceasefire agreement between "Israel" and Hamas has been officially signed in Doha, marking a significant step toward ending hostilities in Gaza. Mediated by Qatar and the U.S., the deal includes a prisoner exchange and the release of Israeli captives held in Gaza.

Israel's government approved a ceasefire deal with Hamas early Saturday morning.

"Contrary to reports, the Hamas terrorist group has not yet returned its response to the deal," the Israeli Prime Minister's Office stated.

The Israeli Prime Minister’s office confirmed that a deal has been agreed upon with Hamas to release the hostages held in Gaza. Follow for live news updates.

Latest news and live updates as a Gaza ceasefire deal is reached after more than a year of war between Israel and Hamas.

Israel intensified strikes on Gaza hours after a ceasefire and hostage release deal was announced, residents and authorities in the Palestinian enclave said, and mediators sought to quell fighting ahead of the truce's start on Sunday.

The negotiations, mediated by Qatar, Egypt and the United States, appear to be making progress after months of failed attempts to achieve a breakthrough.

Qatari and Hamas officials say a last-minute dispute in cease-fire talks between Israel and Hamas has been resolved.

President Joe Biden and his top diplomats, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, had sought closure during his term.