Negotiators from Israel and Hamas have agreed to a 42-day cease-fire and hostage release in Gaza, President Biden and other leaders announced on Wednesday, raising hopes that a 15-month war that killed tens of thousands of Palestinians and destroyed much of the enclave could soon come to an end.

Anticipation is growing as Israel and Hamas appear to be at the closest point yet to sealing a deal to end 15 months of war. Key mediator Qatar said it