A key mediator on Tuesday stressed the urgency of brokering a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip 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 populated areas.

Hamas has told mediators in the Middle East that it accepts a new ceasefire proposal for the Gaza Strip, as a fresh diplomatic push to end the war gained traction.

An Egyptian presidency statement said Sisi and Sheikh Mohammed affirmed the importance of continuing their joint efforts, in coordination with the US, “to reach an agreement that guarantees an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip that allows the immediate and unhindered access to humanitarian aid, as well as the release of hostages.”