Gaza war: optimism fades as talks to resume

Cairo - A Palestinian negotiator says his side is "less optimistic" on indirect talks with Israel over the Gaza war as a deadline on a temporary ceasefire looms.

The negotiator spoke on Sunday on condition of anonymity as the Palestinian team arrived at the Cairo International Airport. Israeli officials were expected to arrive later.

A current ceasefire in the war is due to expire at midnight on Monday (21:00 GMT).

The Palestinian negotiator says that a key sticking point remains Hamas' insistence that Israel pledge to end its Gaza blockade before the talks conclude.

The United Nations says close to 2 000 Palestinians have been killed - mostly civilians - and more than 10 000 people have been wounded since the war began on 8 July.

Israel has lost 67 people, all but three soldiers.