Hillary Clinton in Israel: Gaza attacks ‘must end’

Gaza continued to be pounded by strikes from Israel Tuesday as diplomatic efforts to end the conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants intensified.

The New York Times reported Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton arrived in Israel and expressed confidence that a cease-fire was close.

The BBC reported at least 20 Palestinians and two Israelis were killed in the fighting on Tuesday.

Egyptian and Palestinian officials said a cease-fire would be announced in Cairo, but Israeli spokesman Mark Regev said there still was no deal.

Speaking at a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Clinton said she hoped a cease-fire would give way “toward a comprehensive peace for all people in the region,” according to the Times.

Clinton is expected to meet with Palestinian leaders in the West Bank, then fly to Cairo for talks with Egyptian officials, the Times said.

Diplomats familiar with the agreement said it involves a cease-fire, followed by a 48-hour window for implementation to allow Clinton and negotiating parties a way to agree to a long-term peace plan.