Declaration on release of hostages in Gaza Strip expected soon - Media
Illustrative photo: Declaration on the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip is expected soon (Getty Images)
A declaration on the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip is expected soon. Hamas leader Mohammed Sinwar has approved the ceasefire agreement, The Times of Israel reports.
Officials in Jerusalem have informed Israeli media that the agreement between Israel and Hamas on a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip is likely to be signed this evening. Therefore, a joint declaration on the release of hostages is expected either this evening or tomorrow.
The outlet notes that if the agreement is approved by the government within these two days, with a 24-48 hour period for appeals to the Supreme Court, its implementation could begin with the release of the first hostages as early as Sunday, January 19.
"There is a breakthrough in the hostage deal negotiations in Doha. Hamas military leader in Gaza Mohammed Sinwar gave his OK," said one Israeli official.
At the same time, an Arab official from one of the mediator countries told the news agency that Israel and Hamas are "super close" to reaching a ceasefire and hostage release agreement.
Yesterday, another Arab official informed The Times of Israel that the agreement will be announced on Wednesday or Thursday and will begin to be implemented within 48-72 hours.
Agreement between Israel and Hamas
Negotiations between Israel and Hamas on a ceasefire and hostage release have been at an impasse for several months, despite efforts by US President Joe Biden.
Meanwhile, US President-elect Donald Trump warned that "all hell to pay in the Middle East" if the hostages are not released by his inauguration on January 20.
At the end of last year, Israel and Hamas accused each other of delaying the signing of a peace agreement.
Yesterday, it was reported that Hamas supported the draft agreement on a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of dozens of hostages.
