Overview

• Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated Israel's commitment to destroying Hamas before considering a ceasefire or hostage deal, rejecting Hamas's demands for lifting the blockade and military withdrawal.
• Thousands of Israelis, including former hostages, protested in Tel Aviv, urging the government to prioritize a deal for the release of 24 remaining hostages held by Hamas.
• Hamas rejected Israel's 45-day ceasefire proposal, which included a hostage-prisoner exchange, aid resumption, and Hamas disarmament, citing unacceptable conditions.
• The Israeli military intensified its campaign in Gaza, conducting over 1,400 airstrikes since mid-March, while admitting errors in a March incident that killed 15 medics and civilians in marked rescue vehicles.
• Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for a full occupation of Gaza and potential military rule to ensure Hamas's defeat and prevent future threats.