It also said that soldiers did not know the hostages were there when they began their operation.

Ismail Haniyeh was Hamas's most prominent leader until his death in July.

The senior official said a ceasefire deal is close but key issues remain that need to be bridged.

The official outlines a phased plan which would see hostages freed in step with Israeli pullouts.

The Israeli military says it targeted two groups of Hamas members who planned to hijack the lorries.

The military says he was murdered by Hamas, which has claimed he was killed by an Israeli strike.

Some of those who reported for duty after October 7 explain why they are now refusing

Mandy Damari tells the BBC she is increasingly concerned for her daughter Emily, who has been held for more than 400 days.