Strengthening ties between the Kurds and Israel could counterbalance Turkish and Iranian ambitions, promote regional stability, and redefine power dynamics in the Middle East.

Hamas said Wednesday it will return the bodies of four Israeli hostages in the coming hours in exchange for Israel releasing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Israel had delayed the agreed-upon prisoner release,

Israel and Hamas have not agreed to continue negotiations over the release of hostages held in Gaza, the Palestinian group said on Saturday.

Authorities say Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, his wife and their dog were found dead in their New Mexico home. Foul play is not suspected.

JERUSALEM -- Israel has accepted a U.S. proposal for a temporary ceasefire in the Gaza Strip during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and Jewish Passover holiday, according to a statement issued by the Israeli Prime Minister's Office around midnight between Saturday and Sunday. (Israel-Ceasefire-Ramadan)