Qatar says Israel, Hamas agree to ceasefire deal

The government of Qatar said Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire agreement. It comes after over a year of fighting in the Gaza Strip. A Qatari government official said on Wednesday that the accord includes an initial six-week pause in fighting starting Sunday with Hamas freeing 33 hostages and Israel releasing Palestinian prisoners.

A truce deal had been stalled as Israel insisted it be allowed to keep forces along a land corridor between southern Gaza and Egypt following a ceasefire. Hamas, meanwhile, had demanded Israeli forces fully withdraw from the enclave.

Biden's administration had intensified its efforts to finalize negotiations, aiming to secure the deal as part of its diplomatic legacy.

Biden praised the mediation efforts of the US, Egypt and Qatar. Donald Trump is also claiming credit. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres hailed the deal and urged all parties to ensure its complete implementation.