The images from the territory, largely sealed off to journalists and others, have helped relief agencies and experts make estimates regarding the extent of the damage.

Rifts with Hamas and a far-right minister’s threat to resign complicated progress toward the Israeli cabinet’s vote on the deal, which includes the release of hostages.

The Gaza Strip ceasefire should begin on Sunday as planned, despite the need for negotiators to tie up a "loose end" at the last minute, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday.

The deal, mediated by the United States, offered a glimmer of hope in a conflict that has taken an immense human toll.

"The humanitarian situation is catastrophic," said Tommaso Della Longa, a spokesperson for many aid organizations operating in Israel and Gaza.

The complex accord emerged Wednesday after months of mediation by Qatar, Egypt & the US. Israeli bombardment, especially in Gaza City, killed 32 people hours later, medics say.

The deal, not yet formally announced, outlines a six-week initial ceasefire phase and includes the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian detainees held by Israel.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says a deal to return hostages held in the Gaza Strip has been reached

Israel delayed approval of a deal with Palestinian militant group Hamas for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and release of hostages, but the United States said it still expected the agreement to go into effect on Sunday as planned.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says a deal to return hostages held in the Gaza Strip has been reached. The announcement Friday came a day after Netanyahu’s office said there were

Israeli strikes in the Gaza Strip killed at least 18 people overnight, including six women and four children, health officials said Tuesday, as Israel and Hamas appeared to be narrowing in on a ceasefire deal to end the 15-month war and release dozens of hostages.