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Israel Today: Ongoing War Report - Update from 2025-10-09 at 12:06
HEADLINES
US Led Force Targets Hostages and Remains
Israel Hamas Find Common Ground Phase One
Israeli Coalition Splits Over Ceasefire Deal
The time is now 8:00 AM in New York, I'm Noa Levi and this is the latest Israel Today: Ongoing War Report.
This is the latest update on the Gaza situation as of 8:00 AM. A US-brokered joint task force involving Israel, the United States, Qatar, and Egypt has been formed to locate and return both the remains of abducted individuals and those held alive in Gaza. The objective is to bring as many remains as possible back to Israel, along with the living hostages, within a tight 72-hour window once the operation begins. The arrangement envisions a coordinated effort that leverages diplomatic channels and on-the-ground arrangements in Gaza to quicken the returns, while also supporting the broader ceasefire framework currently in place.
In parallel, senior negotiators report that Israel and Hamas have found common ground on the first phase of President Trump’s 20-point Gaza plan, with a shared mechanism and a constructive mood in the room. Officials described a “good spirit” as discussions progressed toward implementing the initial steps intended to secure the release of hostages and reduce hostilities, while laying groundwork for a broader peace process. The practical details of that phase are being worked out in talks hosted by Egypt and other mediators, with a focus on delivering tangible results for families on both sides.
The ceasefire agreement governing the Gaza context was welcomed by neighboring states and regional bodies. Jordan and the Arab Parliament praised the deal as a key step toward lasting peace and called for urgent humanitarian aid to Gaza. In parallel, parties in the region signaled readiness to cooperate on stabilization and reconstruction efforts, consistent with a wider regional approach to post-war Gaza. While the ceasefire is in effect, all parties remain focused on implementing the terms promptly, including hostage releases and obligations related to humanitarian access and reconstruction.
On the legal and accountability front, hearings continue for Gaza flotilla activists intercepted by Israel, amid ongoing debates about treatment of detainees and the connections between certain groups and funding networks. In parallel, Hamas officials have reiterated a hard line on hostage releases, saying the group will not transfer captives absent a broader end to the war, a position tied to statements from Doha-based representatives and other interlocutors.
Within Israeli politics, the process surrounding the ceasefire and hostage deal remains controversial among coalition partners. Bezalel Smotrich, the leader of Religious Zionism, indicated he will oppose the current ceasefire deal, expressing concerns about the release of prisoners and the potential long-term security implications. Other coalition figures have voiced mixed views, with some supporting the deal and others warning that concessions could carry political consequences. Opposition figures have proposed a political safety net to support the government's handling of the agreement, highlighting the deep domestic tensions as Israel seeks to balance security needs with diplomatic openings.
Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government has mounted a concerted effort to manage public expectations and security concerns as the ceasefire takes hold. A number of ministers have signaled that while the hostages’ safe return remains a priority, the broader goal of neutralizing Hamas remains non-negotiable. The government is coordinating with foreign partners to ensure that security conditions in Gaza are maintained while facilitating humanitarian access and local governance arrangements inside the Strip during the transition.
On the humanitarian and medical front, Israeli hospitals are preparing to receive returning hostages who have spent
Published on 3 weeks, 6 days ago