Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has welcomed progress on a peace plan between Israel and Hamas, with the designated terror group conditionally agreeing to release hostages.

Hamas took more than 250 hostages during its October 7, 2023 attack against Israel, during which more than 1200 people were killed, according to Israeli figures.

Israel believes Hamas continues to hold 48 hostages, only 20 of whom are alive.

Mr Albanese said Australia had consistently been part of calls for a ceasefire, hostage release and unimpeded aid with the humanitarian situation in Gaza at catastrophic levels.

"I reiterate our call on Hamas to agree to the plan, lay down its arms and release all remaining hostages without delay," he said in a Saturday statement, posted to X.

Mr Albanese said Australia would c

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