The post Israel and Hamas sign hostage-ceasefire deal in Doha after mediators iron out final kinks appeared first on The Times of Israel.

Last minute negotiations between Hamas and Israel on a ceasefire deal delayed the release of hostages by a day.

Israel intensified strikes on Gaza hours after a ceasefire and hostage release deal was announced, residents and authorities in the Palestinian enclave said, and mediators sought to quell fighting ahead of the truce's start on Sunday.

President Joe Biden and his top diplomats, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, had sought closure during his term.

DOHA, Qatar (AP) — Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire deal, mediators announced Wednesday, pausing a devastating 15-month war in the Gaza Strip and raising the possibility of winding down the the deadliest and most destructive fighting between the bitter enemies.

Their dealmaking cooperation represents an unusual moment in the polarized world of U.S. politics. But it did not stop both Trump and Biden from touting their respective roles.

The deal, not yet formally announced, outlines a six-week initial ceasefire phase and includes the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian detainees held by Israel.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken had said the U.S. wanted a ceasefire deal in Gaza and all remaining captives released before Donald Trump takes office on Jan. 20.

A groundbreaking ceasefire agreement between "Israel" and Hamas has been officially signed in Doha, marking a significant step toward ending hostilities in Gaza. Mediated by Qatar and the U.S., the deal includes a prisoner exchange and the release of Israeli captives held in Gaza.

The Israeli cabinet will meet to give approval to a deal with Hamas for a ceasefire in Gaza, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dispatched a high-level delegation to Doha to help seal a hostage and cease-fire deal, according to reports.