Overview

• The security cabinet endorsed a five-point strategy to disarm Hamas, free hostages, demilitarize Gaza and establish a non-Israeli civil administration.
• About 100,000 Israelis gathered in Tel Aviv over the weekend to demand an immediate ceasefire and the safe return of captives held by Hamas.
• Government figures indicate that 20 hostages are still alive in Gaza and 30 have died since the October 2023 attacks.
• Senior military leaders and some cabinet ministers have expressed concern that the offensive could jeopardize the safety of hostages and troops.
• International actors including the UN and European governments have called for a ceasefire and unimpeded humanitarian access for Gaza’s civilians.