Israel Sees Signs of Breakthrough in Talks Over Gaza Ceasefire

  • Officials from Israel say Hamas softens negotiating stance
  • Hostages would be exchanged for prisoners; aid boost for Gaza
A resident sits by building rubble following an Israeli strike in Deir el-Balah, Gaza, on Dec. 14.Photographer: Eyad Baba/AFP/Getty Images
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Israeli officials say a ceasefire in Gaza is a more realistic prospect than at any time in the past year, suggesting a long-awaited deal to free hostages and boost aid to the beleaguered territory could be close.

A working group from Israel is in the Qatari capital of Doha this week to re-establish relations with mediators in the event of a breakthrough in negotiations with Hamas, said the officials, asking not to be identified discussing sensitive information.