According to a report, the u.s. and several arab states are preparing a peace deal between Israel and the palestinians that includes a firm timeline for a palestinian state. Reportedly, following a forty minute phonecall with the u.s. president, the israeli prime minister said Israel would not be pressured into accepting a palestinian state. According to the report, those behind the plan include Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Qatar and the United arab emirates, they think a military offensive in Rafah will derail the potential for a peace process. Reportedly, Israel believes they cannot weaken hamas without taking Rafah, the last hamas stronghold in Gaza. According to the report, some of the hostages are thought to be in the city. Reportedly, hamas health authority in Gaza said that on Monday amid a bombardment that killed dozens, two hostages were rescued from an apartment in the city.
According to a report, an inability to reach the chief of hamas has led Israel to ask Qatar for hamas to have a new representative appointed for its final decision making in the hostage talks. Reportedly, Yahya Sinwar has not been heard from in 11 days which has led to a slowdown in talks.