The negotiations between Israel and Hamas have made great progress, leading to an agreement brokered by Qatar and the United States.

As part of this agreement, 50 hostages—many of them children—will be freed from imprisonment in Gaza.

According to the agreement, there would be a four-day ceasefire during which time at least fifty Israeli civilians—including women and children—will be freed via Egypt.

The agreement, which was mediated diplomatically, is expected to enhance humanitarian conditions.

The Independent reported that a senior US administration official said that three US citizens — a three-year-old girl and two women — are expected to be included in the release.

The US official added that the process towards a deal has been “gut-wrenching” – and it has been long and fraught. Many attempted agreements have “fallen at the last hurdle” according to those close to the negotiations.

At least 240 people, including the elderly, sick, and children have been held in Gaza since 7 October when Hamas militants launched an attack on southern Israel killing 1,200 people.

In retaliation, Israel has launched its heaviest bombardment ever of the Hamas-controlled strip – which health authorities say has killed more than 14,000 people including 5,600 children.