Israeli Mossad chief David Barnea is set to present new ceasefire proposals to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid ongoing tensions in Gaza. This meeting follows Hamas's rejection of a proposed prisoner exchange deal, which has complicated negotiations for a ceasefire. The Netanyahu government is advocating for a short-term agreement that includes a partial ceasefire and a limited prisoner exchange, while Hamas demands a complete cessation of hostilities, withdrawal of Israeli forces, unrestricted aid access, and the return of displaced individuals to their homes.
In related developments, the Israeli judiciary has lifted a gag order on a case involving the leak of sensitive security documents from Netanyahu's office. Eli Feldstein, a former spokesman for the Prime Minister, is accused of leaking these documents to influence public opinion against Hamas and the prisoner exchange negotiations. This leak coincided with protests from families of Israeli prisoners, who are demanding urgent action from the government to secure their loved ones' release.
Protests have erupted across Israel, with demonstrators calling for the resignation of Netanyahu's government and an immediate prisoner exchange deal. Families of prisoners have organized rallies in various cities, emphasizing the need for the return of all Israelis held in Gaza. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has criticized the government for prioritizing its political survival over the rescue of prisoners.
