Hamas clears way for possible ceasefire after dropping key demand, officials say

The third phase would see the return of any remaining hostages, including bodies of dead captives, and the start of a years-long reconstruction project.

(Jehad Alshrafi/AP)

Hamas has given initial approval for a US-backed proposal for a phased ceasefire in Gaza, dropping a key demand that Israel gives an up-front commitment for a complete end to the war, Hamas and Egyptian officials said.

The apparent compromise by the militant group — which controlled Gaza before triggering the war with an October 7 attack on Israel — could help deliver the first pause in fighting since last November and set the stage for further talks on ending a devastating nine-month war, but all sides cautioned that a deal is not guaranteed.