The deal, mediated by the United States, offered a glimmer of hope in a conflict that has taken an immense human toll.

Israel and Hamas have agreed a Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal following meetings with Qatar's prime minister, a source briefed on the talks has told the BBC. There was no confirmation from the Israeli government or Hamas, but a Hamas official earlier told the BBC it had approved a draft from Qatari, US and Egyptian mediators.

The Israeli government and Hamas were still working on logistics. The agreement, which would include the release of hostages, was met with cautious hope by Israelis and Palestinians after 15 months of war.