Hamas says it is considering the latest US ceasefire plan for Gaza and remains “fully engaged” in the mediation process as Israel vowed to escalate its renewed campaign in Gaza to pressure the militants into releasing hostages.

Israel’s defence minister said he has ordered ground forces to advance deeper into the Gaza Strip, and vowed to hold more land until Hamas releases the remaining hostages it holds. Israel Katz said: “The more Hamas continues its refusal to release the kidnapped,

As Hamas continues its refusal, it will lose more and more territory that will be annexed to Israel,’ Israel Katz said.