Signs of life from three hostages - Yosef Ohana, Matan Angrest, and Eitan Mor - emerged through the morning and evening, providing momentum to negotiation efforts. These revelations coincided with Defense Minister Katz's warnings of unprecedented force if Hamas fails to meet Trump's Saturday deadline.
Egypt's reconstruction plan surfaced, explicitly rejecting Gaza population transfers, while Sissi declined White House invitation over disagreements with Trump's resettlement vision. By afternoon, Hamas indicated to Saudi media its willingness to proceed with limited releases, though not meeting the comprehensive US demand.
IDF continued preparations for renewed combat, establishing permanent positions in Lebanon and conducting infiltration drills along Gaza's perimeter. The military's readiness posture aligned with political messaging, even as Qatar and Egypt intensified mediation efforts to salvage the deal's first phase.