Biden expresses 'support for a ceasefire'

US President Joe Biden voiced support for ending the war in Gaza during a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, the US administration said.

"The President expressed his support for a ceasefire and discussed US engagement with Egypt and other partners towards that end," the White House said in a statement.

It was the clearest signal of backing an end to the hostilities from Washington since the crisis began. The US had blocked a UN Security Council statement calling for a ceasefire three times over the past week.

Earlier on Monday US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had suggested that Washington would not call for a ceasefire unilaterally.

"In all of these engagements we have made clear that we are prepared to lend our support and good offices to the parties should they seek a cease-fire," Blinken said.

During his call with Netanyahu on Monday - the third since the crisis began - Biden reiterated support for what he calls "Israel's right to defend itself".

"He [Biden] encouraged Israel to make every effort to ensure the protection of innocent civilians," the White House said. "The two leaders discussed progress in Israel’s military operations against Hamas and other terrorist groups in Gaza."

On Sunday, dozens of lawmakers from Biden's Democratic Party issued their own call for a ceasefire. 

"To prevent any further loss of civilian life and to prevent further escalation of conflict in Israel and the Palestinian territories, we urge an immediate ceasefire," a joint statement by 28 senators said.