Israel and Hamas are nearing a deal for a Gaza ceasefire, although they have yet to agree on the positioning of Israeli troops inside the shattered Palestinian enclave, according to three people familiar with the negotiations.

Netanyahu said his meeting with Trump focused on freeing hostages in Gaza, and stressed his determination to "eliminate" the capabilities of Hamas.

Trump's meetings with the Israeli leader have brought no apparent breakthrough for a ceasefire in Gaza, where the bloodshed continues unabated.

Israeli strikes pounded the Gaza Strip over the past 24 hours, killing at least 34 Palestinians, according to local hospitals.

Cease-fire talks between Israel and Hamas stall amid hostage disputes, political tensions, and aid access issues.

The officer says Israeli strikes have devastated the group's leadership and structure, and that armed clans are filling the void.