The release of the hostages is the first phase of the deal. The proposed second phase would end the war in Gaza

Hamas is expected to release 33 hostages during the first phase of an emerging ceasefire agreement being finalized by negotiators in Doha, two Israeli officials said.

After 15 months of the deadly conflict, which has claimed the lives of thousands of people and left the Middle East completely destabilised, Israel and Hamas have reportedly agreed to a ceasefire in Gaza and the phased release of dozens of hostages.