The release of dozens of women and children held hostage in Gaza is reportedly on the horizon, as talks between Israel, the United States, and Hamas reach a critical stage. However, Israeli bombings on Gaza continue to claim lives, with at least 15 Palestinians reportedly killed in recent hours.
The IDF has escalated its activities in Gaza, attacking civilian areas and schools that serve as refuges for displaced people. Negotiations over the release of hostages remain tentative, with Hamas still holding 239 prisoners.
Despite White House denials, efforts to reach an agreement are ongoing. The establishment of a ceasefire is expected to allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected the idea of a complete ceasefire and faces increasing pressure from the international community.
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has called for the Palestinian National Authority to govern Gaza and the West Bank at the end of the war. He has also ordered sanctions and visa bans to be prepared against extremist Israeli settlers in the West Bank.