Israeli Security Cabinet to Weigh Hostage Deal Versus Military Escalation

JERUSALEM — Israel’s Security Cabinet is scheduled to meet tonight around 8:00 p.m. for a high-stakes briefing by Minister Ron Dermer, the government’s lead negotiator in hostage talks with Hamas. The meeting will focus on renewed efforts—backed by Egypt and Qatar—to secure a deal before Israel resumes large-scale military operations in Gaza.

Updated Egyptian Proposal on the Table
Despite public statements from senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya rejecting Israel’s latest offer, no official response has been received from the group, according to Israeli sources.

An Israeli official told Israel Hayom that reports of a completely new proposal are inaccurate. Rather, the current proposal is described as an updated version of Egypt’s earlier plan, one that resembles the structure previously promoted by CIA Director William Burns’ envoy, David Barnea (Vitkoff), but with minor changes—most notably regarding the length of a proposed ceasefire.

Netanyahu and Trump to Speak Again
In a related development, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to speak with U.S. President Donald Trump for the first time since the recent summit in Washington. The conversation comes as both leaders face growing pressure to facilitate a breakthrough in the Gaza hostage crisis.

Israel hopes to secure the release of at least 11 hostages in the first phase of any deal, in exchange for a short-term ceasefire.

Military Escalation Still Under Discussion
The Cabinet is also expected to debate whether to intensify military operations in Gaza. Members from the religious Zionist bloc are reportedly pushing for a renewed, large-scale assault on Hamas positions.

While no final decision has been made regarding the resumption of full-scale combat, insiders suggest Netanyahu is prioritizing a diplomatic milestone—particularly a significant hostage release—before giving the green light for a broader offensive. “It’s clear Netanyahu wants a diplomatic win before unleashing a more intense wave of attacks,” one source said.