Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hamas of backing out of a cease-fire deal to release hostages and end the war in Gaza, which has raged for more than a year.

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.

U.S., Qatari and Egyptian mediators shuttled between the Israeli and Hamas delegations in Doha on Tuesday, where officials said a deal to halt the war is near.

The negotiations, mediated by Qatar, Egypt and the United States, appear to be making progress after months of failed attempts to achieve a breakthrough.

Biden officials involved in the effort acknowledged that President-elect Donald Trump’s threats and Trump envoy Steve Witkoff’s participation during the final week of negotiations played a major role in bringing across the finish line a deal they had struggled to reach for more than a year.

Latest news and live updates as a Gaza ceasefire deal is reached after more than a year of war between Israel and Hamas.

The Israelis being returned by Hamas were criminally kidnapped. Getting them back isn't a fair 'deal'; it's extortion, says a reader.

In truth, the first phase of the deal is relatively easy to implement and gives all parties a respite from draining conflict. After the six-week ceasefire, any extension will depend on the success of future negotiations,