A deal for a ceasefire in Gaza that would also see Israeli hostages freed is believed to be close, with Israel and Hamas having expressed optimism that an agreement can be reached after months of deadlock.
The Independent understands that the truce would be an initial 60 days, without a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces. Hamas has consistently called for all Israeli troops to leave Gaza. Israeli forces would likely pull out of city centres in Gaza and the coastal road. It would come after extended intense negotiations to try to end the 14-month war.
