Israel to ease blockade as it accepts Gaza ceasefire

An Israeli official says that Israel has accepted an Egyptian-brokered ceasefire plan to end a seven-week war against Islamic militants in the Gaza Strip.

The official said that Israel “responded positively” to Egypt’s call for an open-ended ceasefire.

Egyptian state media reported the cease-fire was to begin at 7pm local time.

The Israeli official said Israel would ease its blockade of Gaza to allow humanitarian and construction materials to enter the war-battered territory.

He said indirect talks on more substantial issues would begin in Cairo within a month.

Issues are expected to include Hamas’ demand for an end to the blockade and Israel’s calls for Hamas to disarm.