Gaza: Hamas announced its intention to release 10 hostages amid ongoing Gaza ceasefire negotiations, as Israel expressed optimism about reaching a deal to halt hostilities in the region.

The statement from the Palestinian militant group followed four days of indirect discussions facilitated by Qatar. Meanwhile, the United States indicated confidence that a 60-day truce agreement could be finalized before the week concludes.

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that a key component of the agreement would involve the return of 10 hostages currently held by Hamas since their October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which ignited the current conflict.

During the assault on Israeli border towns near Gaza, militants seized a total of 251 hostages. Of these, 49 remain in custody within Gaza, including 27 individuals who the Israeli military has declared dead.

Of 251 hostages seized during the assault on Israeli border communities near Gaza, 49 are still held in the territory, including 27 the Israeli military says are dead.

In its statement, Hamas said key hurdles remained in the talks, notably the free flow of aid into Gaza, Israeli military withdrawal from the territory and “real guarantees” for a lasting peace.

But it added: “The movement displayed the required flexibility and agreed to release 10 prisoners (hostages).

“Despite the difficulty of negotiations over these issues until now due to the intransigence of the occupation, we continue to work seriously and with a positive spirit with the mediators to overcome the hurdles and end the suffering of our people and ensure their aspirations to freedom, safety and a dignified life.”said Hamas