'We have a deal': Trump hails Gaza peace accord

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump hailed a hostage release and ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas on Wednesday, agreed just five days before he returns to power.

"We have a deal for the hostages in the Middle East. They will be released shortly. Thank you!" Trump said on his Truth Social network, before there was any official announcement from outgoing President Joe Biden's White House.

A source briefed on the talks also confirmed to AFP that a deal has been reached.

A "Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal (was) reached following (the) Qatari PM's meeting with Hamas negotiators and separately Israeli negotiators in his office," said the source who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the talks' sensitivity.