US Secretary of State visit to the Middle East

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken postponed his visit to the Middle East due to security uncertainty and possible Iranian retaliation.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's trip to Washington

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu begins a three-day trip to Washington amid chaos over US President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the race, emphasizing Israel's strong alliance with the US. Netanyahu plans to meet with Biden to discuss policy issues, including a pending hostage deal. He also intends to address a joint session of Congress, highlighting the importance of US-Israel relations during times of war and uncertainty.

Israel's Military Pressure on Hamas in Rafah

Israel's successful military operation and pressure on Hamas in Rafah has led to Hamas showing willingness to compromise for a hostage deal. Hamas dropped the demand for a permanent ceasefire. Israel aims to achieve its war objectives and secure the release of hostages. The IDF has demoralized Hamas troops, impacting negotiations for a ceasefire.

President Biden's decision on weapons shipment to Israel

President Biden faces criticism for postponing a weapons shipment to Israel amid reports of civilian casualties in Rafah. Talks ongoing for cease-fire and hostage deal.

Israel's Operation in Rafah

Israeli government spokesman David Mencer confirmed warning to residents of Rafah is the start of a long-promised IDF operation to defeat Hamas, despite White House objections. The operation aims to liberate Gaza from Hamas, with warnings issued for residents to relocate to avoid combat zones. Israel remains open to negotiations for a hostage deal but Hamas demands permanent end to war, which Israel rejects.

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) operation in Rafah, Gaza

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) urged residents of Rafah, Gaza to evacuate to safe zones as an attack on Hamas strongholds seemed imminent. The IDF has been dropping flyers and expanding the humanitarian area in Al-Mawasi. Talks for a potential hostage deal with Hamas are deadlocked.

CIA Director's Efforts to Save Hostage Deal Talks Between Israel and Hamas

CIA Director William Burns is heading to Doha, Qatar, in an attempt to save talks on a potential hostage deal between Israel and Hamas. Hamas insists on a permanent ceasefire, while Israel is committed to destroying Hamas's military and governing powers. The U.S. has tried to ensure Israel won't return to war after a temporary pause, but there are disputes.

Hamas agreement to Egyptian mediation proposal

Hamas is reportedly set to announce that it has agreed to the Egyptian mediation proposal, with conditions being waived in the first phase of a hostage deal. Discussions have involved Egypt, Qatar, Israel, and the US, with guarantees for a permanent cessation of war and IDF withdrawal from Gaza.

Israeli-Hamas Hostage Deal

The Biden administration has pressured Israel into accepting a weak hostage deal with Hamas, which would see Israel withdraw from Gaza, release Palestinian terrorists, and accept a ceasefire. American pressure has played a significant role in Israel's current predicament.

Hamas refusal of Israel's terms for a hostage deal after UN resolution

Hamas refuses Israel's terms for a hostage deal after UN resolution calls for ceasefire in Gaza. Resolution does not require release of Israeli hostages. Hamas sees it as a victory. Israel condemns the resolution.

Ceasefire Resolution in Gaza

The United States is bringing a resolution to the UN Security Council calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza as part of a hostage deal.

Vice President Harris meeting with Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz

Vice President Harris meets with Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz to discuss the situation in Gaza, including the need for humanitarian aid and a potential hostage deal. Harris emphasizes the need for Israel to defend itself while expressing concern over the civilian casualties in Gaza.

Vice President Kamala Harris's Remarks on Gaza Ceasefire

Vice President Kamala Harris clarified her remarks on an 'immediate ceasefire' in Gaza, explaining that she was actually calling for a proposed six-week truce as part of a deal to release Israeli hostages. The statement was seen as a 'head fake' to appeal to President Biden's left-wing base.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statements on hostage deal with Hamas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirms hostage deal with Hamas will delay IDF operation in Rafah, while U.S. works on a cease-fire deal for Gaza. Netanyahu appreciates U.S. efforts in negotiation.