Israel and Hamas agree to a ceasefire and hostage deal to take effect on Jan. 19:: Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister of Qatar:::: Doha, Qatar"It gives us great pleasure in Qatar,

Negotiators in Qatar appeared close on Wednesday to sealing a deal for a ceasefire in the war in Gaza. Hamas had given verbal approval to the ceasefire and hostage return proposal under negotiation in Qatar and was waiting for more information to give final written approval, a Palestinian official, who asked not to be named, told Reuters.