Several Palestinian armed groups in the Gaza Strip have denied Hamas claims that an agreement has been brokered among them to stop firing rockets across the border into Israel.
Iran tests nuclear sites defences
The Iranian military has begun a week-long simulation of air defence exercises aimed at practising responses to possible attacks on the country's nuclear sites.
Talks 'progress' over Shalit swap
Shimon Peres, Israel's president, has said there has been "progress" in efforts to free Gilad Shalit, the Israeli soldier captured by Hamas three years ago.
