World News: Final draft made in talks over Israel-Hamas ceasefire

This is the World Now, bringing you the latest stories from around the globe.

Starting with the Israel-Hamas ceasefire talks.

Mediators, including officials from Qatar, Qatar, Egypt, and the United Nations, have reportedly handed over on Monday, local time, a final draft of a deal that could end the conflict in Gaza.

According to officials, Hamas is expected to release up to 33 hostages as part of the deal. U.S. President Joe Biden expressed optimism in a speech on Monday, stating that the U.S. is "pressing hard to close this." The final details of the ceasefire negotiations are set to be completed in Doha on Tuesday morning during another scheduled round of talks. The release of hostages will be the first phase of the agreement, with negotiations on the second phase, aimed at ending the war, commencing on the 16th day after the ceasefire deal is implemented.

In Greenland, the country's Prime Minister, Mute Egede, announced on Monday, the nation's intent to strengthen defense and mining collaborations with the United States, emphasizing that any agreements will be established on Greenland's terms.

This follows President-elect Donald Trump's renewed interest in acquiring the mineral-rich Arctic island in recent weeks, highlighting the region's strategic significance. Also on Monday, Denmark, which currently manages Greenland's foreign affairs and defense, expressed a willingness to discuss the increased U.S. military presence on the island. The dialogue aims to address security concerns and ensure Greenland's safety while avoiding any scenario of American annexation.

Over in the U.S., the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has for the second time postponed the announcement of this year's Oscar nominations due to the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles.

Initially scheduled for January 17, then moved to January 19, the nominations will now be revealed on Thursday, January 23.

In a statement, Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang cited the active fires as the reason for extending the voting period, allowing members additional time.

Also, the annual Oscar nominees' luncheon set for February 10 has been canceled.

Despite these changes, the 97th Academy Awards ceremony remains scheduled for March 2.

In India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh, the world's largest religious gathering, the Maha Kumbh Mela, also known as the Great Pitcher Festival, kicked off on Monday.

Held every 12 years, the festival is expected to draw over 400 million Hindus over the next six weeks.

During the festival, devotees take part in rituals such as the Shahi Snan or the Royal Bath, where they immerse themselves in the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, known as the sacred waters. The act is believed to cleanse sins and help people reach salvation.

Choi Chi Hee, Arirang News.