Israel, Hamas agree to halt fighting and free hostages, mediators say
Hamas and Israel have reached a deal to bring a cease-fire to the Gaza Strip and release dozens of hostages, including some Americans, U.S. and Qatari officials announced Wednesday. The agreement — which they said includes a six-week pause in fighting starting Sunday — raises hopes that it could prove a permanent end to the 15-month long war that has killed tens of thousands of people,