US says Israel and Hamas “on brink” of Gaza ceasefire deal | BBC News

President Joe Biden has said a deal for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages is "on the brink" of coming to fruition and his administration is working urgently to achieve it.

Palestinian officials have confirmed that the terms of a deal are being finalised, while the Israelis said talks are at an advanced stage with a deal possible in hours or days.

It’s understood that Israel has agreed to release 1,000 Palestinian prisoners including around 190 who have been serving sentences of 15 years or more. In exchange, Hamas will release 34 hostages.

Hamas would release three hostages on the first day of the agreement after which Israel would begin withdrawing troops from populated areas of Gaza. Seven days later Hamas would release four additional hostages and Israel would allow displaced people in southern Gaza to return to the north on foot via the coastal road.

The agreement includes provisions for Israeli forces to remain in what’s known as the Philadelphi Corridor and maintain an 800-meter buffer zone along Gaza’s eastern and northern borders during the first phase of the deal lasting 42 days.

Fiona Bruce presents BBC News at Ten reporting by Lucy Williamson in Jerusalem and Sarah Smith in Washington.

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