Egypt is demanding that Hamas fully dismantle its armed capabilities in exchange for a five-year ceasefire and immunity for senior leaders. Meanwhile, the IDF is taking control of neighborhood after neighborhood in Rafah, expanding its hold in the northern Gaza Strip and preparing for even more intense military operations.
A senior Israeli official told Israel Hayom that no new proposal has been received from the mediators since the terrorist organization Hamas announced it was rejecting the Witkoff framework. He added that negotiations on a deal are still ongoing.
According to an Egyptian source, the meeting focused on recent developments and Hamas’ proposal regarding its willingness to reach a comprehensive deal that would end the war in Gaza.. The Israeli delegation also inquired about specific names of Israeli hostages.
Sylvia Cunio arrived at the Gaza border and called out to her sons, David and Ariel: “Hear me, I’m waiting for you.” Vicky, the mother of Nimrod Cohen, added, “Your room is waiting for you - your friends, your family, we will not give up on you.” Ilana Gritzewsky, the partner of Matan Zangauker, said, “I hear your name and your voice everywhere. I need your hug beside me.”
Senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya says Israel’s offer "does not bring about an end to the war or a withdrawal from the Gaza Strip". Hamas is demanding a "comprehensive package" that would include the release of hostages in exchange for prisoners and "a complete cessation of hostilities".
A Hamas official tells Al Jazeera that the terror organization "will never negotiate on weapons and those who carry them at any stage."
Egyptian media chief suggests Netanyahu's "maximum demands" are negotiation tactics while Trump seeks to visit Middle East only after ceasefire is secured.
Sources indicate discussions could include release of up to 11 living hostages held in Gaza and lengthy ceasefire as mediators work toward month-end target.
The Israeli response follows earlier reports about a Hamas compromise regarding the number of living hostages to be released in the Egyptian proposal.
The Lebanese newspaper Al-Akhbar quoted Egyptian officials expressing optimism about the prospects of reaching a deal. The report also said Turkey is actively involved in the negotiations. Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump is pushing a broader regional agreement that could ultimately lead to normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia.