Despite reports of progress in Cairo, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signaled Monday that Israel is preparing to seize Gaza City, dismissing Hamas’s acceptance of a partial truce.
Speaking to IDF commanders, Netanyahu said Hamas’s willingness to compromise shows it is “under immense pressure.” Still, he insisted Israel will only end the war if Hamas frees all hostages at once, disarms, and relinquishes control of Gaza.
Hamas’s updated proposal reduces prisoner swap demands and softens its position on border security zones. Mediators hope this opens the door to negotiations for a permanent ceasefire during the two-month truce.
For now, Israel is moving forward with military plans, while leaving the possibility open—however slim—for a broader deal.