Various options have been put forward to push for progress toward a ceasefire between Israel and the Islamic group Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli media reported that the chief of the country's intelligence agency visited Qatar on Sunday and held talks with officials from Egypt and the United States on a ceasefire and a return of hostages.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi told reporters on Sunday that his country proposed a plan that includes a two-day ceasefire, followed by an exchange of four hostages for Palestinian prisoners, and negotiations toward a complete ceasefire.

At a memorial ceremony for soldiers who died in battle, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said painful concessions are required to bring back the hostages. He stressed that military operations alone cannot achieve the goal.

Gallant has repeatedly disagreed with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is maintaining a hardline stance to eliminate Hamas.

Meanwhile, Israel's parliament is expected to deliberate as early as Monday legislation aimed at heavily restricting the activities of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA.

The agency has been providing aid and healthcare services in Gaza and elsewhere. The Israeli government says supplies and funds have been diverted from UNRWA to Hamas.

If passed, the legislation could severely hamper humanitarian efforts in Gaza and elsewhere.

Japan, Canada and other countries have issued a joint statement expressing grave concern. They say UNRWA provides essential lifesaving humanitarian aid and basic services to Palestinian refugees.