Live Update 
From the Liveblog of
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
From the Liveblog of
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
Hamas says answer on hostage deal proposal likely by tomorrow
Families and supporters of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza hold banners and flags during a protest calling for their return, outside a meeting between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and families of hostages in Tel Aviv, May 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)
Hamas leaders say they are studying a ceasefire and hostage release proposal put forward by Egyptian mediators and hope to respond by tomorrow, according to a statement the terror group sent to The Associated Press.
The current round of truce talks between Israel and Hamas appears to be serious, but the sides remain far apart on one key issue — whether the war should end as part of an emerging deal.
“Most probably tomorrow, Thursday, God willing the mediators will be given a response,” the Hamas statement says.
