Hamas says it is 'keen' to complete remaining ceasefire stages

Hamas has said it is ready to proceed with the next stages of the ceasefire - as the first phase has ended with uncertainty over what is to come.

"We affirm our keenness to complete the remaining stages of the ceasefire agreement, leading to a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire, full withdrawal of the occupation forces from the Gaza Strip, reconstruction and lifting the siege," Hamas said in a letter to the Arab League summit that will be held on Tuesday.

It added: "We categorically reject the attempt to impose any non-Palestinian projects or forms of administration or the presence of any foreign forces on the territory of the Gaza Strip," saying it the group is willing "to cooperate with any initiative that would counter attempts to displace our people from the Gaza Strip and reconstruct the Strip without prejudice to Palestinian rights".