Israel Reviews Hamas’s Latest Response in Ongoing Ceasefire Talks
Israel is currently analyzing Hamas’s most recent reply to a proposed ceasefire deal, as indirect negotiations between the two sides continue in Doha, Qatar. The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that its delegation in the Qatari capital had received Hamas’s response and was closely evaluating the details.
These talks, which began in early July, aim to secure a long-awaited ceasefire in Gaza and facilitate the release of Israeli hostages. Officials in Jerusalem indicated that while the new proposal shows progress compared to previous offers, several critical issues remain unresolved. These include Hamas’s insistence on increased humanitarian aid, the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and long-term security guarantees.
U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed earlier this week that special envoy Steve Witkoff would be traveling to the region to support ongoing efforts. Though it was initially unclear whether he would visit the Middle East directly, reports later indicated he would meet with Israeli and Qatari officials in Rome.
Meanwhile, U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Adam Boehler expressed cautious optimism. Speaking to CNN, he said that the negotiations were reaching a crucial stage, noting that Israel was showing significant flexibility, even adjusting its operational plans to make room for a potential agreement.
“If Hamas walks away from this, Israel is prepared to act,” Boehler warned. “But we’re hopeful—we believe progress is possible.”
Currently, 50 hostages are believed to be held in Gaza, 28 of whom are presumed dead. Most were taken during the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led assault. The remains of Lt. Hadar Goldin, an Israeli officer killed in 2014, also remain in Gaza.
Suspected Car-Ramming Attack Injures Eight in Central Israel
A vehicle struck a group of people waiting at a bus stop in central Israel on Thursday morning, injuring at least eight individuals in what authorities believe may have been a deliberate attack.
The incident occurred on Highway 57, near the entrance to Kfar Yona, just east of the city of Netanya. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, treating victims on-site before transporting them to several nearby hospitals.
Two of the injured—a young man and woman, both in their early 20s—suffered moderate injuries and were taken to Laniado Hospital with chest and limb trauma. Three others sustained mild to moderate injuries, and three additional victims were listed in mild condition. Some were later transferred to Meir and Hillel Yaffe medical centers.
The driver of the vehicle fled the scene immediately, triggering a large-scale manhunt. Security forces closed several checkpoints in Judea and Samaria as part of the search. Authorities later said they believe they’ve located the suspect’s vehicle in the Beit Lid area.
Police are continuing to investigate the incident, which is being treated as a possible terror attack. Updates are expected as more information becomes available.
IDF Chief: Israel at a Critical Juncture in Historic Multi-Front War
Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir visited the Ground Forces headquarters at Camp Bar-Lev near Kiryat Malakhi this week, where he underscored the extraordinary scope and complexity of Israel’s ongoing military campaign.
Joined by Ground Forces Commander Maj. Gen. Nadav Lotan and other senior officers, Zamir reviewed personnel developments and explored the deployment of new, cutting-edge combat systems. These advancements, he said, are now being integrated into the IDF’s real-time operational strategy.
“This is unlike any conflict the IDF has faced before,” Zamir stated. “We are conducting operations across multiple fronts—Tehran, Sanaa, Beirut, Syria, Jenin—and, most significantly, in the Gaza Strip. In some cases, we’re operating on several of these fronts simultaneously.”
Looking ahead, Zamir announced that upgrading the Ground Forces will be a key focus of the IDF’s upcoming long-term strategic roadmap. This includes enhancing the maneuverability and firepower of combat teams, increasing the use of robotics and remote technologies in battle, improving battlefield intelligence and responsiveness, and applying hard-earned lessons from ongoing operations—particularly in urban and subterranean environments.
Zamir also praised the dedication and professionalism of IDF personnel. “Our soldiers and commanders are our greatest asset,” he said. “Every visit reminds me of their courage, commitment, and skill. Even during wartime, we are making sure our commanders receive the highest level of training.”
He also highlighted the recent completion of a reserve officers’ course that began amid active fighting—an effort he said is vital to maintaining the strength and readiness of Israel’s reserve forces.
Defense Minister Issues Harsh Warning to Hamas
Meanwhile, Defense Minister Israel Katz delivered a sharp rebuke to Hamas leaders, accusing them of turning Gaza into a devastated war zone. “The Sinwar brothers have destroyed Gaza, and Izz al-Din al-Haddad is pushing it further into ruin,” Katz declared. “While Hamas leaders enjoy luxury abroad, they continue to withhold the release of hostages. If this continues, they will open the gates of hell.”
Yahya Sinwar and Mohammed Sinwar, senior Hamas commanders, were killed in IDF operations in late 2024 and mid-2025, respectively. Since May 2025, Izz al-Din al-Haddad (also known as Abu Suhaib) has served as the head of Hamas’s military wing, the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
