 With SRN News, I'm Ron Taylor. A Hamas official and an Egyptian official say Hamas has given initial approval for a U.S.-backed proposal for a phased, ceased-fire deal in Gaza, dropping a key demand that Israel commit up front to a complete end of the war. The apparent compromise by the militant group could deliver the first pause in fighting since November and set the stage for further talks. Texas officials are urging coastal residents to brace for a looming hit by barrel as the storm is expected to regain hurricane strength.