Trump's comment prompted the group representing the families of hostages to ask the Israeli government to share any new information with them immediately.

President Donald Trump says three hostages held by Hamas in Gaza have died, leaving only 21 believed to be still living.

An Israeli plan to seize the Gaza Strip and expand the military operation has alarmed many in the region. Palestinians are exhausted and hopeless, pummeled by 19 months of heavy bombing. Families of Israeli hostages still being held in Gaza are terrified that the possibility of a ceasefire is slipping further away.

At least 20 Palestinians have been killed in two Israeli strikes on a crowded restaurant and market on the same street in Gaza City, medics say. Graphic videos posted on social media showed bodies slumped over tables at the Thailandy restaurant, in the northern Rimal neighbourhood, which had recently been operating as a community kitchen.

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip — Israeli strikes across Gaza killed at least 59 people, including women and children, hospital officials said Wednesday, as Israel prepares to ramp up its campaign against Hamas in a devastating war now entering its 20th month .

Medics said two strikes targeted the Karama School in Tuffah, a suburb of Gaza City. Among those killed was a local journalist, Nour Abdu, Palestinian media said. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli army.

Pope Francis​' popemobile​ is being converted into a clinic to help children in the Gaza Strip, the Vatican announced​, calling it the late pontiff's "final gift" to the war-torn territory.