The US president, Joe Biden, has welcomed the Gaza ceasefire deal, which will involve the release of Israeli hostages held in the besieged strip. Biden's announcement came after the Qatari prime minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, confirmed a phased deal, which it is hoped will bring a permanent end to the fighting. The outgoing president confirmed that the ceasefire would become permanent after the first phase is completeGaza ceasefire deal agreed by Hamas and Israel, Qatari PM saysMiddle East crisis live Continue reading...