"Cease-fire Negotiations Progress as Hamas Softens Demands and Hostage Deal Delays Operation"

U.S. officials signal progress on cease-fire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains uncertain about reaching a deal. Netanyahu plans to proceed with a military operation in Rafah, Gaza, regardless of a cease-fire, aiming to eliminate Hamas and secure the release of Israeli hostages. Meanwhile, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh has offered his government's resignation, aiming to pave the way for a new technocratic government to oversee the West Bank and Gaza. Pressure is mounting on Netanyahu as anti-government protests continue in Israel, with demonstrators calling for the release of hostages held by Hamas.