Direct US-Hamas talks gained momentum as Washington bypassed Israeli intermediaries, prompting Netanyahu's government to formally protest. Hamas delegation arrived in Cairo for ceasefire negotiations while Al-Qassam Brigades released footage of captured Israeli soldier Matan Engrist appealing to Trump, marking a shift in resistance communication strategy.
90,000 worshippers attended first Ramadan Friday prayers at Al-Aqsa despite restrictions, while Israel refused Muslim access to Ibrahimi Mosque. China's foreign ministry rejected Trump's Gaza population transfer plan, reaffirming Palestinian sovereignty.
UNRWA declared Jenin, Tulkarem, and Nur Shams camps uninhabitable as Israeli operations continued. Houthi forces issued four-day ultimatum regarding Gaza aid crossings. US announced AI-powered visa restrictions targeting Hamas supporters, while public support for Israel dropped below 50% in American polls for first time since October.