After months of deadlock, Israel and Hamas have reached a deal for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release agreement. I spoke with USA TODAY World Affairs correspondent, Kim Hjelmgaard to learn more. Kim, thank you so much for making some time on this.

Officials representing Israel and Hamas said today that the two sides had agreed to a 42-day cease-fire that would coincide with the release of Israeli hostages who have been held captive in Gaza. The final details are still being worked out, but the tentative agreement raised hopes that there could soon be an end to the war.

The first three hostages held by Hamas and some prisoners held by Israel are scheduled to be exchanged following the cessation of hostilities Sunday.