The deal, mediated by the United States, offered a glimmer of hope in a conflict that has taken an immense human toll.

Officials say Hamas has accepted a draft agreement for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of dozens of hostages.

The deal, not yet formally announced, outlines a six-week initial ceasefire phase and includes the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian detainees held by Israel.

Qatar and the U.S. announced the ceasefire on Wednesday, but the deal hung in limbo for more than a day as Netanyahu insisted there were last-minute snags he blamed on

Under the deal, bitterly opposed by some cabinet hardliners, a six-week ceasefire is due to take effect on Sunday, with the first of a series of hostage-for-prisoner exchanges that could open the way to ending the 15-month war in Gaza.

Deadly Israel airstrikes struck Gaza on Jan. 16 after a ceasefire and hostage release deal was announced. Israel’s government had not yet approved the deal. Gaza’s Civil Defense spokesman said at least 113 people had been killed,