Mon Jan 13 12:36:17 UTC 2025: **Last-Minute Push for Israel-Hamas Ceasefire and Hostage Release**

**Tel Aviv, January 13, 2025** – Mediators from the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar are in the final stages of negotiations to secure a ceasefire in the protracted Israel-Hamas war and the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. While officials from all sides confirmed significant progress overnight, a deal remains elusive as of late Monday.

Three unnamed officials, including one with Hamas, acknowledged that several key obstacles remain. Although a proposed deal is on the table, it still requires final approval from Israeli and Hamas leaders. Qatar has reportedly intensified pressure on Hamas, while U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, is urging Israel to compromise.

The next 24 hours are crucial, with an Egyptian official expressing optimism that a deal could be reached before President Trump’s inauguration on January 20. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar cautiously stated that progress has been made but a deal isn’t certain.

A major sticking point is the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, as well as the terms of the ceasefire itself. Hamas demands a complete end to the war and full troop withdrawal before releasing the remaining hostages, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has only committed to a phased ceasefire, releasing hostages in exchange for a temporary truce. This position has raised concerns about stability within Netanyahu’s coalition, given the objections of far-right factions.

The Biden administration, along with Egypt and Qatar, has been working for over a year to broker an agreement, with both U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan expressing optimism about reaching a deal before the end of Biden’s term. High-level officials, including Israel’s Mossad chief, have participated in the talks.

The ongoing conflict has had a devastating impact. Gaza’s Health Ministry reports over 46,000 Palestinian deaths, while Hamas’ October 2023 attack claimed the lives of approximately 1,200 Israelis and resulted in the abduction of around 250. The families of the remaining hostages have been publicly urging a resolution. While there is hope for a deal, Palestinians in Gaza remain cautious, emphasizing the need to see tangible results on the ground before believing in any truce.

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