**US and Qatar Broker Ceasefire Deal in Gaza Conflict**
The US and Qatar have announced a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, which has been at war for 15 months. The agreement will come into effect on Sunday, pending approval by the Israeli Cabinet.
Under the deal, both sides will work towards releasing hostages held by each other. Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani said that a “clear mechanism” had been put in place to negotiate further phases of the deal.
The first phase of the agreement includes the release of 33 hostages and the beginning of humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza. The second phase will involve the release of all remaining hostages, a withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the rebuilding of Gaza.
**Reaction from Israel and Hamas**
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s office welcomed the deal but said that an official statement would be issued once the agreement was finalized. Meanwhile, Hamas chief mediator Khalil al Hayya hailed the agreement as “a milestone in our conflict with the enemy” and vowed to rebuild Gaza.
**Reaction from Hostage Families**
Families of hostages held by Hamas expressed mixed emotions about the deal. Some welcomed the prospect of their loved ones being released, while others were more cautious, acknowledging that the process would be phased and not all hostages may be freed immediately.
**International Reaction**
The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated that “the priority now must be to ease tremendous suffering caused by this war.” The international community has been urging both sides to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict.