The humanitarian crisis in Gaza intensified with UNRWA warning the territory approaches "very deep hunger" and reporting that 60,000 children under five suffer from malnutrition. Morning reports documented water shortages worsening after Israel damaged the Mekorot pipeline.
Israeli forces announced completing the siege of Rafah and establishing the "Morag axis," effectively controlling half of Gaza. Defense Minister Katz declared Rafah would be fully annexed to Israel's security zone, with operations expanding to most areas of Gaza.
By afternoon, a Hamas delegation headed to Cairo led by Khalil al-Hayya for ceasefire negotiations, as reports emerged of Israel retreating from previous demands under American pressure. The day culminated with Al-Qassam Brigades releasing a video of captured Israeli-American soldier Eidan Alexander addressing Trump and criticizing Netanyahu, suggesting an effort to influence negotiations and American public opinion.