Overview

• US officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, held virtual talks with Israeli counterparts to discuss the planned Rafah operation, urging Israel to consider alternative strategies.
• The Biden administration warns that a full-scale invasion of Rafah could further damage Israel's global reputation and undermine its long-term security interests.
• Israel insists on conducting a major military operation in Rafah to defeat Hamas, despite US suggestions for targeted strikes as a less harmful approach.
• Hostage negotiations in Cairo show 'potential for real progress,' with Qatar and Egypt facilitating talks between Israel and Hamas for the release of 134 hostages.
• Tens of thousands of Israelis protest in Jerusalem, demanding a cease-fire and early elections, as divisions over Prime Minister Netanyahu's leadership deepen amid the ongoing conflict.