American officials spoke of progress in the talks in Doha, aimed at a ceasefire in Gaza. Sources close to the talks said the decision to continue for another day it is an indication that the parties believe that progress towards an agreement can be made.

The meeting at Dohawhich Israeli officials say is the “last chance” to reach a deal, comes amid heightened regional tensions and threats from Iran and Hezbollah to attack Israel in retaliation for the recent assassinations of Hamas and Hezbollah leaders in Tehran and Beirut.

The American president, for his part, sees an eventual agreement as the key to de-escalating tensions in Middle East and preventing a regional war.

The head of the CIA sits at the discussion table William Burns and Joe Biden’s senior adviser on the Middle East, Brett McGurkthe Prime Minister of Qatar, Mohammed bin Abdel Rahman Al Thanithe head of the Mossad, Deddy Barna and the head of the Egyptian intelligence service, Abbas Kamal.

White House spokesman John Kirby said yesterday that the talks in Doha are focusing on remaining gaps in steps to implement the deal. According to him, the US believes that it is possible to close the remaining gaps.

According to Kirby, a deal could reduce regional tensions, adding that the US has information indicating that the Iran and Hezbollah are planning an attack on Israel which could happen “with little or no warning”.

Last night, Qatar’s prime minister spoke with Iran’s deputy foreign minister, Ali Bagri, and briefed him on the discussions. Qatar’s prime minister stressed the importance of reducing regional tensions.

From the side of Hamas reaffirmed its position on Thursday that any ceasefire in the enclave must be accompanied by the “complete” withdrawal of Israeli armed forces.

“Any agreement must result in a total ceasefire, a complete withdrawal (of the Israeli army) from Gaza (and) the return of the displaced” to their homes, Hussam Badran, a senior Hamas official, said in Doha.