Negotiators in Qatar appeared close on Wednesday to sealing a deal for a ceasefire in the war in Gaza. Hamas had given verbal approval to the ceasefire and hostage return proposal under negotiation in Qatar and was waiting for more information to give final written approval, a Palestinian official, who asked not to be named, told Reuters.

Qatar said Tuesday that Israel and Hamas are at their “closest point” in months to a deal that could halt the devastating 15-month-long war in Gaza and release hostages.