The Israeli security cabinet met to decide on negotiation strategy as hostage talks resumed amid direct US-Hamas communications. Israel announced a delegation would travel to Qatar Monday, while Trump's envoy Adam Boehler revealed he bypassed Israeli officials in direct Hamas contacts, causing tension with Jerusalem. Hamas expressed willingness to release hostage Edan Alexander specifically.
Israel escalated pressure on Hamas by cutting electricity to Gaza "immediately," following last week's aid stoppage. Finance Minister Smotrich announced establishing a migration administration for Gazans, calling it implementation of "Trump's plan."
In separate developments, former Bat Yam mayor Shlomi Lahiani survived his third assassination attempt when his car exploded on Ayalon Highway. The IDF appointed Brigadier General Efi Defrin, who was severely wounded in the Second Lebanon War, as its new spokesperson replacing Hagari. Media also reported a confrontation between Netanyahu and Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, with the Prime Minister unsuccessfully pressuring Bar to resign.