The day's editorial focus began with Israel reviewing Hamas's latest ceasefire response, initially described with cautious optimism as "improved." Concurrently, a suspected car-ramming attack near Kfar Yona injured eight, primarily soldiers, prompting an intensive manhunt for the assailant, which dominated morning headlines. By early afternoon, the narrative shifted dramatically as Israel recalled its negotiating delegation from Doha, citing Hamas's "hardening positions" and significant demands, including the release of specific high-profile prisoners. US envoy Steve Witkoff later declared Hamas unwilling to agree to a ceasefire, indicating a move towards "alternative strategies" for hostage retrieval. The day concluded with a major diplomatic development: French President Emmanuel Macron announced France would recognize a Palestinian state in September, a move framed by some Israeli outlets as a "devastating blow." Large protests for hostage return also continued in Tel Aviv.