DHAKA: Israel and the Palestinians have begun a fresh five-day ceasefire in Gaza, agreed at the end of a three-day truce.

As the ceasefire was announced, Israel launched air strikes in response to alleged rocket fire from Gaza.

There were no more reports of violence overnight, and the two sides were expected to continue indirect talks mediated by Egypt in Cairo.

The Israelis launched a military operation in Gaza on 8 July to stop militant attacks from Gaza.

Hamas, which controls Gaza and is involved in the Cairo talks, has denied its members launched rockets at Israel on Wednesday night.

Israeli military spokesman Peter Lerner said on Twitter: "No need to jump to conclusions. I don't know who launched 10pm (19:00GMT) rocket at Israel."

There was no immediate report of casualties from either side, reports BBC.

Palestinian sources say the truce extension will create a window for further negotiations.

But the BBC's Kevin Connolly in Gaza says future talks are likely to be forbiddingly difficult.

Officials from both sides have been communicating their demands through Egyptian intermediaries in Cairo.

The talks are aimed at finding a more durable solution to the conflict in Gaza.

BDST: 1227 HRS, AUG 14, 2014