Jerusalem, Dec 24
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that "there has been progress" in efforts to secure a ceasefire-for-hostages deal with Hamas, but cautioned that the timeline for reaching an agreement remains unclear.
Speaking before the Knesset on Monday, the Israeli parliament, Netanyahu said, "I do not know how long it will take," while vowing to "continue to act in every possible way until we bring everyone home."
Earlier on Monday, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar outlined parts of the deal during a closed meeting of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee, describing it as "a phased, gradual framework."
Israeli and Palestinian media reported that efforts led by Qatari, Egyptian, and US mediators have shown progress, though a breakthrough remains elusive.
Israel's Diaspora Minister Amichai Chikli told Kan Reshet Bet public radio that there had been "some" progress toward an agreement, adding that the sides are closer to a deal than in recent months. He said the initial phase would be "a humanitarian phase," involving a 42-day ceasefire and the release of some hostages.
"This ceasefire could last six months or 10 years, depending on the dynamics that develop on the ground," Chikli said.