Hamas says it accepts UN ceasefire resolution | First Thing

Statement backing hostages-for-ceasefire deal described as hopeful sign' by US. Plus: Mexico's anti-avocado militias

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Good morning.

A senior Hamas official has said Hamas accepts a UN security council ceasefire resolution that would lead to the release of the remaining hostages taken in the 7 October attack on Israel.

What does the deal entail? The three-stage deal, proposed by Joe Biden, involves the release of all the remaining hostages, in return for Israel accepting steps towards a permanent ceasefire and the eventual withdrawal of its forces from Gaza - two key Hamas demands. A third phase would involve a major reconstruction effort.

What does Israel think of the deal? Far-right Israeli cabinet member Bezalel Smotrich - on whom Benjamin Netanyahu is now reliant after the resignations of more moderate ministers at the weekend - said he would oppose any deal, calling it collective suicide".