CAIRO — Israel and Hamas appear closer than they have been in months to agreeing to a ceasefire that could wind down the 14-month war in Gaza and bring home dozens of people held hostage there. But the sides have come close before, only to have talks collapse over various disagreements . This round of negotiations also faces hurdles.

After months of deadlock, Israel and Hamas appear to be moving closer toward a ceasefire to end their 14-month war.

U.S. and Israeli officials say a deal to release the hostages still held by Hamas may be imminent, a claim reportedly bolstered by an unnamed Hamas official. Hope around possible deals to release the remaining hostages captured on Oct.

U.S. officials say both Hamas and Israel are making concessions toward securing a deal, but tempered optimism with differences remaining on key issues.

Israel and Hamas are closing in on an agreement to end more than 14 months of war. But so far, the sides remain unable to seal the deal.

Lengthy negotiations on an agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza after 14 months of war between Israel and Hamas are in a final phase, according to Egyptian security circles. A deal that should also lead to the release of Hamas-held hostages from the Gaza Strip could be reached within 10 days,