The terms of any potential exchange remain unclear. However, officials told NBC News that Hamas might be incentivized to strike a deal directly with the US, as it could strain US-Israel relations and increase domestic political pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
IDF forces conducted a daring raid on Saturday in the Nuseirat Refugee Camp in the Gaza Strip culminating with the successful return of Noa Argamani, Andrey Kozlov, Almog Meir Jan and Shlomi Ziv. One servicemember dies in operation.
The resolution is based on President Joe Biden's plan for a 3-phased ceasefire, which Israel has submitted to Hamas through US mediators. Blinken says Hamas' statement of support a 'hopeful sign,' while word coming from the Palestinian terrorist group's leadership in Gaza is what counts.
The Israeli military carried out operations overnight in the western Rafah area, employing tanks and combat helicopters but denied reports that the humanitarian area was targeted.
The hostages were held by Hamas underground or in families with guards, in the heart of Nuseirat in a civilian environment, in four or three-story buildings 200 meters apart.
In a video released in honor of Jerusalem Day, the Jewish rapper pays tribute to the capital – "heart and soul of the Jewish people" – and draws attention to the Israelis being held hostage by Hamas.
University president says there was also extensive graffiti on the sandstone buildings. Images circulated on social media showed graffiti saying, "Death to Israel," "Pigs taste best dead," "Death to America," "Kill cops," and others.
Analysts view the decision as driven by Sánchez's need to maintain his minority government's alliance with the far-left Unidas Podemos party, which holds extremely critical views of Israel.
The Israeli government now faces the decision of whether to appoint a new judge to replace Barak on the International Court of Justice.
Israeli officials express concern that one additional terrorist may have managed to escape back into Gaza.
