Israeli media declared Hamas losing governmental control in Gaza as aid distribution centers bypassed the organization for the first time. Multiple outlets described armed clans filling the power vacuum while Gazans no longer feared Hamas intimidation. Defense officials claimed "signs of success" in the new American-backed distribution system, with over 250,000 Palestinians evacuated from Jabaliya.
Ceasefire negotiations remained confused throughout the day. Hamas initially rejected the Witkoff framework through BBC, then stated they were "consulting with other organizations" about the proposal. Defense Minister Katz issued an ultimatum: accept the deal or face destruction.
By evening, Trump declared the sides "very close" to agreement with announcements possible "today or tomorrow," though Israeli assessments remained skeptical. The day also featured an IDF investigation revealing October 7 terrorists took a wrong turn while targeting the sensitive Unit 8200 base, instead attacking Urim base where eight soldiers died.