Israel has proposed to Hamas a week-long cessation of war in Gaza for the release of 40 hostages, CNN reported.
The hostages, including women, the elderly, and those in urgent need, would be part of the deal presented to Hamas through Qatari mediators, CNN reported, citing Axios.
Michael Herzog, Israeli Ambassador to the United States, acknowledges Israel's readiness for a pause in fighting to maximise hostage releases but refrains from confirming a finalised deal.
"I think it's premature to tell whether or not we have a deal because, until now, Hamas refused to do another deal," Herzog told CNN.
"They were hoping for a permanent ceasefire, but I hope that under the pressure of what we're doing on the ground, plus the pressure from the Qataris, they will agree to do a deal, but it's premature at this phase," he said.
Hamas insists on a ceasefire before releasing more hostages.
The ongoing diplomatic efforts occur amid a worsening humanitarian crisis in the besieged strip.
According to the Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health, Israeli military actions in Gaza since October 7 have resulted in nearly 20,000 deaths and over 52,000 injuries.
