Hamas said its response to a proposed Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal "can be characterized as positive" and stressed it is ready to start negotiations on the implementation. Why it matters: President Trump has been pushing both Hamas through Qatari and Egyptian mediators and Israel to agree on a deal that includes a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza and the release of 10 live hostages and 18 deceased hostages.

Palestinian group’s reply boosts chances of 60-day Gaza ceasefire, but Israel hasn’t responded publicly to the proposal.

Hamas on Friday said it had given a positive response to a proposal for a ceasefire with Israel mediated by Egypt and Qatar and that it was ready to start talks "immediately". Earlier this week, US