Biden Says ‘Very Close’ To Securing Release of Hostages

USA – U.S. President Joe Biden said on Tuesday that Israel and Hamas are “Very, very close” to securing the release of potentially dozens of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.

A source familiar with the negotiations said Hamas would free 50 women and children, including some foreigners, while Israel releases 150 Palestinian prisoners, mostly women and minors, during a four-day ceasefire.

Earlier on Tuesday the leader of Hamas said a truce deal with Israel was close and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he hoped for good news soon about hostages.

Netanyahu has since summoned his war cabinet.