The USA and several Arab countries are mediating between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas. Three anonymous sources participating in the talks say to the news agency AP that progress has been made regarding the terms of a ceasefire and the release of hostages, but an agreement has not yet been reached.
The talks have stalled time and again. Informants from primarily American sources have repeatedly stated over the past year that an agreement is near, only for it to swing back in the other direction and the talks to break down.
AP's various sources describe the coming day or days as crucial. One of the informants and another source from Hamas say that several obstacles remain. Hamas has previously demanded clearer guarantees from Israel regarding a military withdrawal from Gaza and a lasting ceasefire if and when they release the hostages.
Another source says that a breakthrough has been made, that a formulated agreement exists and will be presented to the parties.
The USA's incoming president Donald Trump has sent an envoy, Steven Witkoff, who has participated in the talks in Qatar over the past few days.
The USA's sitting president Joe Biden is reported to have spoken with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday. Biden's security advisor Jake Sullivan says in a TV interview that an agreement is "very, very close" but reserves himself for it not being clear until it is completely clear.
