Israel is close to concluding a hostage swap agreement with "Hamas". This was stated by Defense Minister Israel Katz to Knesset members in a closed session, Reuters reported.
"Israel is closer than ever to a new deal," he emphasized.
In addition, Katz stressed that he believes that the agreement will not encounter obstacles within the Israeli government, since it is alleged that it will not include a cessation of hostilities.
Meanwhile, a senior representative of "Hamas" confirmed that an agreement with Israel is close.
"We are closer than ever to reaching an agreement on a prisoner exchange and a ceasefire, unless Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu breaks the agreement at the last minute," the official noted.