Israeli official tells ToI gaps are narrowing in talks with terror group, but crucial issues — including length of ceasefire, Palestinian prisoners to be freed — still unresolved

Hamas is demanding additional concessions in exchange for the release of 11 men whom Israel wants on the hostage release list. This information was reported by the Egyptian television channel Al-Ghad.

After months of deadlock, Israel and Hamas appear to be moving closer toward a ceasefire to end their 14-month war.

CAIRO — Israel and Hamas appear closer than they have been in months to agreeing to a ceasefire that could wind down the 14-month war in Gaza and bring home dozens of people held hostage there. But the sides have come close before, only to have talks collapse over various disagreements . This round of negotiations also faces hurdles.

A series of meetings in Cairo and Doha have led to renewed optimism about the prospect of a deal between Israel and Hamas, the Palestinian Islamists in Gaza, ending the war there after over 14 months.

Hamas and two other Palestinian militant groups said on Saturday a ceasefire deal regarding Gaza with Israel is “closer than ever”, provided Israel does not impose new conditions. Last week, indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas mediated by Qatar,