Qatar says the temporary truce - which comes after six weeks of fighting - includes a comprehensive ceasefire in both north and southern Gaza, with hopes it will lead to a permanent truce.

Thirteen women and children hostages held by militants in Gaza will be the first to be released - as the the temporary truce in Gaza between Israel and Hamas begins at 7am on Friday, Qatar has said.

Dr Majed Al Ansari, spokesperson for Qatar's foreign ministry, said it had received a list of the civilians to be freed at 4pm tomorrow - and families would be given priority.

He said it was expected Israel would release Palestinian prisoners in return as part of the deal.

"We are hoping that we don't see any further delays," he said.

"I think we have reached a point now where everything is in place, we are ready to go on the ground."