The two sides are supposed to negotiate a second phase of the cease-fire agreement that would end the war, but they remain far apart on how to move forward.

The United States has put forward a new proposal that would secure the release of a handful of living hostages held by Hamas in exchange for a month-long extension of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, a source familiar with the negotiations said.

While fighting has not resumed since the March 1 ceasefire expiration, Israel has cut off humanitarian aid to Gaza to press Hamas.

Hamas welcomed a comment made by U.S. President Donald Trump that Palestinians will not be expelled from the Gaza Strip. Trump's remarks and the Hamas response could reduce some of them tensions at a time a truce extension is being discussed between Hamas and Israel for the freeing of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

Along with Arab nations backing an alternative to Trump's "Riviera of the Mideast" proposal, Hamas also cautiously welcomed his sharp change in rhetoric.