The United States, Egypt and Qatar have spent the past year trying to mediate an end to the 15-month war and secure the release of dozens of hostages.

The Israeli government and Hamas say that they are in the final stages of indirect talks over a deal for a ceasefire and the release of hostages held in Gaza and Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

President-elect Donald Trump said he believed negotiators could conclude a ceasefire deal that would see Hamas turn over Israeli hostages before his inauguration next Monday, in the latest signal that an agreement could be near.