DHAKA: The Gaza ceasefire has been extended for a further 24 hours after talks in Cairo, BBC reports. 

The previous ceasefire came into effect last Wednesday, but was due to expire at midnight (21:00 GMT) on Monday.

Officials say that 2,016 Palestinians and 66 Israelis have died since Israel began its offensive on Gaza on 8 July.

Earlier, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israeli forces would hit back hard if Hamas resumed rocket fire.

The 24-hour extension was confirmed by the Egyptian government, which said Palestinian and Israeli delegations had agreed to continue negotiations for a permanent deal.

Negotiating teams returned to Egypt's capital Cairo for indirect talks on Sunday following consultations.

BDST: 0942 HRS, AUG 19, 2014