France’s AFP news agency reported that Israel had agreed to the ceasefire and Egypt is waiting for a response from the Islamic Jihad Movement (PIJ) in the Gaza Strip.

Israel's Channel 13, however, quoted a Palestinian source as saying that the PIJ has refused the deal.

Israeli forces have over the past three days stepped up airstrikes on Gaza Strip sites believed to belong to the PIJ, which is considered a terrorist organization by some countries. The rebels have fired more than 500 rockets in retaliation.

Gaza health officials say the conflict has killed 31 Palestinians, including six children, and 275 others have been injured and many homes destroyed.