Leaders of the Group of Seven major democracies “fully endorse and will stand behind” a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza outlined by US President Joe Biden and call on Hamas to accept it, Reuters reports.

A statement issued by the group said the deal “would lead to an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, a significant and sustained increase in humanitarian assistance for distribution throughout Gaza, and an enduring end to the crisis, with Israel’s security interests and Gazan civilian safety assured”.