Israel, Hamas agree to Egyptian-brokered 72-hour truce, prepare for talks

JERUSALEM: Israel and Hamas on Monday accepted an Egyptian ceasefire proposal meant to halt a monthlong war, signaling an end to the bloodiest round of fighting between the bitter enemies could finally be approaching. The sides said a preliminary 72-hour truce was to begin at 8am (0500 GMT) on Tuesday. Egypt was then set to host indirect talks to work out a long-term truce over the next three days. A delegation of Palestinian officials from various factions, including Hamas, has been negotiating with Egypt in recent days. Hamas spokesman Fawzi Barhoum said the group had accepted the plan. "It's clear now that the interest of all parties is to have a ceasefire," said Bassam Salhi, a member of the Palestinian delegation. "It's going to be tough negotiations because Israel has demands too." AP