Overview

• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared his commitment to former President Trump's plan to take over Gaza and displace its Palestinian residents, a proposal widely condemned as violating international law.
• The plan has drawn criticism from Arab states and human rights groups, with Saudi Arabia leading efforts to propose alternative solutions at an upcoming regional summit.
• Israel's security cabinet is set to deliberate on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, which involves further prisoner exchanges, Israeli troop withdrawal, and a potential end to the 15-month war.
• Protests have erupted across Israel, marking 500 days since hostages were taken by Hamas, with families demanding their release and accusing Netanyahu of prioritizing political survival over negotiations.
• The war, triggered by Hamas's October 2023 attack, has resulted in over 48,000 Palestinian deaths and widespread destruction in Gaza, alongside ongoing tensions over hostages and governance.