Overview

• President Donald Trump announced the deaths of three more hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, reducing the number of living captives to 21 out of 59 total hostages.
• Israel's Security Cabinet has approved plans for an expanded ground invasion of Gaza, named 'Operation Gideon’s Chariots,' which could commence by the end of Trump’s Middle East visit next week if no agreement is reached.
• Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that intensified military action in Gaza is aimed at defeating Hamas and potentially rescuing the remaining hostages.
• U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff has been tasked with mediating negotiations for a ceasefire and a hostage-release deal between Hamas and Israel.
• Tens of thousands of Israeli Defense Forces reservists are expected to be mobilized for what could be one of the largest military operations since the conflict began in October 2023.