Trump's meeting with released hostages sparked a cascade of revelations about US-Hamas communications. Morning headlines focused on Trump's ultimatum to Hamas, while by afternoon Egyptian sources confirmed direct talks through US envoy Witkoff. Israel initially denied knowledge of progress, then expressed concern about sharing intelligence with the US due to Trump-Putin relations.
First sign of life from hostage Rom Braslavski emerged after 517 days through freed captive Sasha Troufanov's testimony. New IDF Chief Zamir prepared plans for large-scale Gaza operation requiring mass reserve mobilization, while conducting joint exercises with US B-52 bombers.
By evening, Trump confirmed direct US-Hamas talks, specifically demanding release of Israeli-American Edan Alexander. Hamas warned of hostage casualties if fighting resumes, while US sources accused Israel of attempting to undermine the negotiations through strategic leaks.