As Israel and Hamas move toward a critical hostage deal, hopes of ending the Gaza war are rising—but uncertainty looms. Iran has welcomed the peace efforts while emphasizing that Palestinians must determine their own future. Will this be the moment the war truly ends—or just another temporary pause in a cycle of violence? We break down the deal, the regional reactions, and what’s at stake.

Will Gaza War End With Hostage Deal? Iran Welcomes Peace, Urges Palestinian Self-Determination 

World | Under the deal, the crossing of Gaza's southern border was planned to be open after the Palestinian terror group released all the female hostages in Gaza, including Israeli soldiers and civilians. 

Rafah crossing between Gaza, Egypt to reopen today instead of Sunday: Report

World Middle East: Israel delayed the release of Palestinian prisoners who were expected to be released in exchange for the Israeli hostages on Thursday. It was to protest against the chaotic scenes during the release of the hostages.

Gaza ceasefire: Israel confirms release of 110 Palestinian prisoners

World, Middle East: IDF said that Israeli Air Force helicopters are prepared to transport the three Israeli hostages: Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, and Doron Steinbrecher. 

First three Israeli hostages released by Hamas after Gaza ceasefire: Where do they go next?

World, Middle East: Office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Associated Press that no deal has been finalised and the final details were still being sorted out.

Qatar PM confirms Gaza ceasefire deal between Israel, Hamas; phase one from Jan 19

World, Middle East: The mediators said that despite new hopes for Israel-Hamas renewed talks, they have hit an impasse, adding that it is unlikely to be done by the end of Biden's administration. 

Israel-Hamas hostage deal hit impasse; 'unlikely before end of Biden's term': Report

After more than a year into the Israel-Hamas war, the Palestinian militant group has agreed to the Israeli demand to let the Israel Defence Force (IDF) remain in Gaza temporarily under a likely ceasefire deal, The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday (Dec 12).

Hamas said yes to temporary IDF presence in Gaza in potential hostage deal: Report

US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director William Burns and Israel's Mossad chief David Barnea will meet with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in the coming days for talks on a second potential hostage deal in the Gaza Strip, the news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (Jan 25), citing sources.

US, Israeli intelligence chiefs to meet Qatar officials to discuss second Gaza hostage deal: Report