On Day 437 of the Israel-Hamas conflict, a senior Hamas official spoke to Saudi A-Sharq, stating that both Hamas and Israel are closer than ever to a potential prisoner exchange deal and ceasefire. The official emphasized that progress hinges on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s willingness to engage in negotiations. He added that Palestinian factions are ready for a deal and urged U.S. leaders to pressure Netanyahu to move forward.
Meanwhile, in Syria, Israeli airstrikes continued overnight, including a massive explosion near Tartus, along the Mediterranean coastline. The explosion was so powerful it created a seismic impact with a reading of 3 on the Richter scale.
