Middle East Crisis Gaza War

Israel rejects hostage deal – major protests expected

Israel will only accept a deal with Hamas if it means releasing all hostages in one go. This was clarified by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a statement on Saturday evening after media reports claimed that Hamas had changed its mind and was now ready to release about half of the remaining hostages in exchange for a ceasefire.

At the same time, Netanyahu continues to be pressured at home, writes Haaretz. On Sunday, 300 protests are planned across Israel and a national strike to pressure the government to end the war and bring all hostages home.

Thousands on Israel's streets - demand the release of hostages

Thousands of people are protesting in Israel today in a nationwide demonstration for the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, several media outlets report.

Thousands are participating in the demonstrations, according to the Jerusalem Post. Among other things, the highway between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem has been blocked and police are using water cannons to disperse the crowd.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticizes the action, saying it strengthens Hamas's position in the negotiations, according to AFP. In a statement, he says that those demanding an end to the war are now "ensuring that the horrors of October 7 will be repeated." 

IDF plans new offensive – Gazans to be moved south

Israel is preparing to move Palestinians to the southern Gaza Strip while the military continues to plan for a new offensive, reports AP.

Israel's military authority for humanitarian operations in Gaza, Cogat, says that Gaza residents will be provided with tents and other protective equipment today before the move, writes Reuters.

The IDF has not stated when the evacuation will begin.

Defense Minister Israel Katz wrote on X on Saturday that the IDF is in the discussion phase to finalize the plan to defeat Hamas in Gaza.

Just a few days ago, the IDF announced that it plans to take control of Gaza City.