Israel, Hamas moving towards a 30-day ceasefire

Israel and Hamas are moving closer to seal a deal for a 30 day ceasefire in Gaza during which time Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners would be released, Reuters reported.

Qatar, the US and Egypt have been spearheading shuttle diplomacy since 28 Dec to allow an increase in humanitarian aid.

Israel is also said to have made an offer this week for a two-month ceasefire during which Hamas would release the hostages in exchange for Palestinian security prisoners in stages.

Hamas however has refused to move forward.

Hamas is seeking “a package deal” that agrees on a permanent ceasefire before hostages are released during the initial phase, said one of the sources, a Palestinian official close to the mediation efforts told Reuters.