Qatar has stressed the urgency of brokering a ceasefire in Gaza after Hamas showed a “positive response” to a proposal from Arab countries, but Israel has yet to weigh in as its military prepares an offensive in some of the territory's most densely populated areas.

Displaced residents of Gaza City are split over a potential ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas that could allow them to return to their homes.

An Israeli military spokesman says troops will deepen the damage to the "terror infrastructure" held by Hamas.

Official says plan would see 60-day ceasefire, hostage release in two phases; Qatari PM reportedly traveling to Egypt to meet with Hamas representatives, Egyptian president