Israel-Hamas war live: Hamas says 'truce agreement' is close – DW – 11/21/2023

Skip next section Hamas leader says temporary 'truce' is close

The militant group Hamas has said it was inching closer to a "truce."

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, who lives in Qatar where Hamas has a political office, said in a statement released on Telegram and carried by news agencies that "we are close to reaching a deal on a truce." He did not elaborate on details. 

Negotiators, including Qatari mediators, have been working toward a deal that would secure the release of the more than 200 hostages being held in Gaza since the October 7 attacks.

The US government has also said that a potential deal is close.

"We believe we're getting closer," said White House national security spokesman John Kirby.

"We're still working this hour by hour," Kirby added.

In earlier comments, Kirby said negotiators were prioritizing the release of women, children and US citizens.

US President Joe Biden has also said a deal is near.

Israel has not yet commented on the latest statements by Hamas concerning the potential truce. 

Hamas is designated as a terrorist organization by several countries including the US, Israel and Germany, as well as the European Union.