Israel government and Hamas agree ceasefire

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has announced a ceasefire to halt an 11-day military operation against Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip.

At least 230 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza health officials, while 12 people in Israel have died.

Since fighting broke out on May 10, Israel has launched hundreds of airstrikes that it says have targeted Hamas' infrastructure, including a vast tunnel network.

Hamas and other militant groups embedded in residential areas have fired more than 4,000 rockets at Israeli cities, with hundreds falling short and most of the rest intercepted.

A statement said his Security Cabinet unilaterally approved the Egyptian-mediated proposal.

The two sides were still negotiating exactly when it would take effect.

Multiple reports said the truce was to go into effect at 2am, just over three hours after the cabinet's decision.

"The political leaders emphasised that the reality on the ground will be that which determines the future of the campaign,'' the statement said.

There was no immediate comment from Hamas.