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GAZA, June 15 (Reuters) - Palestinian Islamist group Hamas said on Friday it was in an advanced stage of negotiations over the release of a British reporter abducted in Gaza almost three months ago.

A statement by Hamas's armed wing said it was talking to the captors of the BBC's Alan Johnston and had "begun practical steps to secure his release". Hamas seized control of the Gaza Strip over the past two days.

In Damascus, Hamas leader Khaled Meshaal said he was in contact with Hamas operatives in Gaza to secure the release of Johnston.

"I have urged our brothers in Gaza to double their efforts. I am confident that those holding Alan Johnston will realise that keeping him captive doesn't serve the national interest," Meshaal said.

"I hope, but I don't promise, that his release is near," Meshaal said.

Johnston, the only Western correspondent based full-time in Gaza, was seized on March 12.

His abductors -- a little-known group called the Army of Islam -- issued a video of him on June 1 in which he said he was in good health and being treated well, although it was not known when the tape was made.

Johnston, from Scotland, turned 45 in captivity last month.

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