Israeli officials are considering an Egyptian proposal for a small-scale cease-fire with Hamas in Gaza as part of efforts to pave the way for a larger deal, according to a report from NBC News. The proposal involves a two-week truce in Gaza in exchange for the release of six Israeli hostages and comes as Secretary of State Antony Blinken visits Israel to push for renewed diplomatic talks. The proposal was put forward by the new head of Egyptian intelligence, Hassan Mahmoud Rashad, as a way to build momentum for a comprehensive agreement to end the regional conflict.
Israel is currently engaged in a deadly offensive in northern Gaza, while also targeting Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Blinken’s trip aims to address various goals, including ending the fighting in Gaza, securing the release of hostages, discussing humanitarian aid for Gaza, and addressing potential threats from Iran. The U.S. is hopeful that the recent death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar could create an opportunity for negotiations, although it is unclear who currently leads Hamas.
In a separate development, an Israeli strike in southern Beirut caused the evacuation of a hospital after Israel claimed a Hezbollah cash bunker was located beneath the site. The Israeli military alleges that Hezbollah has significant funds hidden in the bunker, but the hospital director denied the claims and called them “theater.” The strike also caused damage to another hospital and resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people. The situation in Lebanon remains tense as Israeli airstrikes continue.
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