US President-elect Donald Trump confirmed on the evening of January 15 that a hostage deal was reached between Israel and Hamas for hostages who remain captive in Gaza.

“We have a deal for the hostages in the Middle East. They will be released shortly. Thank you!” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

The announcement came after initial concerns about last-minute obstacles raised by Hamas regarding the Philadelphia axis, which were resolved within 40 minutes, according to political sources. A senior US official confirmed to Israel’s N12 that agreements had been finalised on all disputed issues.

Israel's Political-Security Cabinet is set to convene at 11:00 on the morning of January 16 to formally approve the agreement, according to Israeli state broadcaster Kan 11.

Reports also suggested that Qatar's prime minister is expected to deliver a statement on the evening of January 15, though the exact timing remains unconfirmed.

The agreement is expected to be based on a previously described outline, consisting of three phases, which include Israel’s military withdrawal from the Gaza Strip as well as the release of hostages being held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli prisons.

The breakthrough comes after intensive negotiations, with IntelliNews noting on January 13 that United States and Arab mediators have made significant progress toward brokering a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas.

The agreement represents a significant diplomatic achievement, potentially marking a turning point in the ongoing crisis and bringing an end to a major source of regional hostilities.

The Israel Hamas-war has killed more than 46,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to health authorities and more than 1,300 Israelis since it began on October 7  2023.