Israel's security cabinet approved a deal with Palestinian group Hamas for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and release of hostages.

It was not immediately clear whether the full cabinet would meet on Friday or Saturday or whether there would be any delay to the start of the ceasefire on Sunday.

The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, tweeted on Friday, "Following an evaluation of all diplomatic, security and humanitarian aspects, and while understanding that the proposed deal supports the achievement of the objectives of the war, the Security Cabinet has recommended that the Government approve the proposed framework."

emerged on Wednesday after mediation by Qatar, Egypt and the US. The deal outlines a six-week initial ceasefire with the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces. Dozens of hostages taken by Hamas, including women, children, elderly and sick people, would be freed in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners detained in Israel.

It paves the way for a surge in humanitarian aid for Gaza, where the majority of the population has been displaced, facing hunger, sickness and cold.

(With inputs from Reuters)