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Elite Israeli security officials returning from talks in Paris have sparked optimism in Jerusalem regarding a potential breakthrough in a new hostage release deal with Hamas. Reports suggest that a refined proposal, presented by US, Qatari, and Egyptian officials, outlines the release of approximately 40 hostages in exchange for a six-week ceasefire and the liberation of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The absence of Hamas from the Paris talks leaves uncertainty about the group’s response to the proposal. While a senior Israeli official noted that negotiators are “still far from a deal,” there is acknowledgment that Hamas has dropped some demands. The deal’s success hinges on Qatari and Egyptian negotiators securing Hamas’ agreement to the presented framework.