GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP) — Israel has unleashed a new wave of airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, and Hamas fired more rockets into Israel, despite growing signs that the sides were close to a cease-fire that would end 11 days of heavy fighting.

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In an apparent sign of progress, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday convened an emergency meeting of his Security Cabinet, where the issue of a cease-fire was expected to be debated.

An Egyptian official says Israel has informed his government, which is mediating a truce, that it intends to end its military operations in Gaza.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was discussing behind-the-scenes diplomacy.

He says an announcement was expected following the Security Cabinet meeting.

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