Israel has expressed readiness to engage in discussions with Hamas regarding a potential deal that would involve the exchange of hostages for a ceasefire. Following a meeting between representatives in Paris, Israeli officials have announced plans to send a negotiating team to Qatar for further talks.
Recent airstrikes in Gaza have resulted in numerous casualties, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirming the military's commitment to advancing into Rafah. The Israeli government is actively pursuing an alternative outline for the release of hostages as part of a comprehensive agreement that includes a temporary halt in hostilities.
The Israeli national security adviser has indicated a positive outlook following the recent negotiations in Paris, suggesting progress towards a potential ceasefire deal. However, specific details regarding the proposed framework for the exchange of hostages remain limited.
Reports suggest that Israel will continue discussions with a delegation heading to Qatar, focusing on the technical aspects of the humanitarian component of the prospective agreement. Despite the momentum in negotiations, Prime Minister Netanyahu has emphasized preparations for military action in Rafah if a deal is not reached.
The ongoing conflict has seen a significant escalation, with the Israeli military conducting heavy strikes resulting in the deaths of 86 Palestinians and injuries to 131 individuals in the past 24 hours alone. The total number of casualties, including combatants and civilians, has now reached nearly 30,000 since the conflict began, with a majority being women and children.
