Multiple Israeli media outlets say the first phase of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and the Islamic group Hamas in the Gaza Strip will be extended and talks for phase two will begin shortly.



The first phase of the agreement, which was due to end on Saturday, calls for Hamas to release 33 hostages while Israel frees detained Palestinians in stages.



The two sides were expected to make the last planned releases through Thursday.



The Times of Israel on Wednesday quoted an Israeli official as saying, "Israel will give Hamas some time to decide what it wants to do," but "if there isn't another release of hostages by next Saturday, March 8 -- indicating continuation of the first phase -- Israel will consider the ceasefire over."



An Israeli television channel quoted Egyptian officials as saying an agreement in principle has been reached between Israel and Hamas on extending "Phase A" of the deal.



It also quoted an Egyptian source as saying, "Cairo will host a round of negotiations on Phase B, the extension of Phase A and the guarantees for the implementation of the agreement on Monday."



There is reportedly a possibility that the US Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, will take part in the negotiations.



But the talks are likely to be tough, as Israel is demanding the expulsion of Hamas leaders and the disarming of the group as conditions for the full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.