Israel and Hamas Negotiations Continue as Geiselhaft Marks 500 Days

Talks on extending Gaza ceasefire progress while protests demand the release of remaining hostages held in Gaza.

Families of hostages held in Gaza protested in Jerusalem, marking 500 days since the October 2023 Hamas attack, urging the Israeli government to secure their release.
Israel's security cabinet is meeting to discuss the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, which aims to free the remaining hostages and end hostilities permanently.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has engaged in discussions with Middle Eastern leaders, emphasizing the need to dismantle Hamas and exploring plans for Gaza's future, including controversial proposals from former President Donald Trump.
The fragile ceasefire in Gaza, brokered by the US, Egypt, and Qatar, has led to some hostage exchanges but remains uncertain as negotiations for its continuation unfold this week.
Separately, tensions persist in Lebanon, where Israel's partial retention of military posts challenges the ceasefire with Hezbollah, drawing criticism from Lebanese officials and the militia.