Multiple media outlets say Israel and mediators have agreed to a proposal for a pause in fighting in exchange for the release of some hostages held by the Islamic group Hamas.

Representatives of Israel and mediators, including the United States and Qatar, began talks on Friday in Paris.

Israeli media and other outlets reported on Saturday that the draft deal proposes a truce of around six weeks in return for the release of about 40 hostages, mainly women and elderly people.

The reports said the proposal also includes freeing hundreds of Palestinians held in Israeli prisons and increasing humanitarian aid supplies to the Gaza Strip.

The mediators are expected to negotiate with Hamas about the proposal. But it is uncertain how Hamas will respond as the Islamic group is demanding a complete ceasefire.

The Israeli military has been preparing to launch a ground offensive in Rafah in southern Gaza. It is drawing up a plan to destroy Hamas while ensuring the safe evacuation of civilians from Rafah. Nearly 1.5 million people, including evacuees, are in the city.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a social media post on Saturday that he will convene a cabinet meeting to approve the operational plans for action in Rafah.

He added that the combination of military pressure and firm negotiations will lead to the release of hostages.