Israel intensified strikes on Gaza hours after a ceasefire and hostage release deal was announced, residents and authorities in the Palestinian enclave said, as mediators sought to quell fighting ahead of the truce's start on Sunday.

Just hours before Israel's cabinet was set to vote on a potential ceasefire deal, fresh Israeli strikes claimed seven Palestinian lives in Gaza City. The tragic timing of these attacks comes amid growing hopes for a breakthrough in peace negotiations,

Israel and Hamas have agreed a Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal following meetings with Qatar's prime minister, a source briefed on the talks has told the BBC. There was no confirmation from the Israeli government or Hamas, but a Hamas official earlier told the BBC it had approved a draft from Qatari, US and Egyptian mediators.

Negotiators said a deal between Israel and Hamas was closer than ever even as Israeli airstrikes on Gaza continued, killing at least 13.

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.

Among the dead were six women and four children, health officials said, as negotiators try to conclude a deal to end the 15-month war.

Israel has reportedly intensified its strikes on Gaza in the hours following the announcement of a ceasefire deal.

Israeli strikes in the Gaza Strip killed at least 18 people overnight, including women and children, health officials said on 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.