Overview

• Hamas announced the exchange of lists for potential prisoner and hostage releases in Egypt-mediated, indirect talks and described the atmosphere as optimistic.
• U.S. envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff are set to join the negotiations in Egypt to help advance President Trump’s ceasefire and hostage-release blueprint.
• Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said numerous details in the U.S.-backed proposal remain unresolved despite the latest procedural progress.
• Hamas negotiator Jalil al Haya conditioned a deal on firm guarantees to halt Israeli strikes, alongside withdrawals and comprehensive prisoner-for-hostage exchanges.
• Marking the Oct. 7 anniversary, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to pursue Israel’s war aims and the return of captives, while Israel confirmed it intercepted a Gaza-bound flotilla and said passengers were safe.