Mediators are sounding the most optimistic notes to date that Israel and Hamas are about to strike a deal to release hostages and impose a cease-fire in Gaza. The latest came Tuesday in Doha, the Qatari capital where negotiators have been hammering out details.

Qatar says it is hopeful that a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal could be agreed "very soon", with negotiators from Israel and Hamas beginning a "final stage" of indirect talks in Doha. Foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari told reporters that major issues had been resolved in recent weeks and that drafts of a possible deal had been handed over to both sides.