Hamas has given initial approval to a US-backed proposal for a phased truce and hostage exchange in Gaza, Associated Press reported, citing Hamas and Egyptian officials.
According to the media outlet, this move could pave the way for the first ceasefire since last November and lead to further negotiations to end the devastating nine-month conflict.
Under the proposed plan, the initial phase would involve a complete six-week ceasefire and the release of hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Israeli forces would withdraw from densely populated areas of Gaza during this period, allowing displaced people to return to their homes in northern Gaza.
