Israel considering extension of initial phase of ceasefire deal

Israel is considering an extension of the initial phase of the ceasefire deal in Gaza, Israeli officials have said.

The first phase is due to conclude on Saturday, but it is unclear what will follow.

"We are being very cautious," Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel told reporters in Jerusalem when asked whether the truce might be extended without the start of talks on a second phase, which would include difficult issues such as a final end to the war and the future governance of Gaza.

"There wasn't a particular agreement on that, but it might be a possibility," she said. "We didn't close the option of continuing the current ceasefire, but in return for our hostages, and they have to be returned safely."

Two officials who have been involved in the ceasefire process told Reuters that Israel and Hamas have not engaged in negotiations to finalise an agreement over phase two of the ceasefire, which will have to bridge wide gaps between the two sides to be concluded.

Reporting by Reuters