Egypt has proposed a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict, suggesting an exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners and a three-week truce.

Israeli Foreign Minister Katz prioritizes the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza, with a potential military operation in Rafah on hold pending a deal.

Israel is contemplating a ground invasion of Rafah, Hamas's last stronghold, but may defer if it aids in the hostages' release.

U.S. Secretary of State Blinken is traveling to Saudi Arabia to negotiate a ceasefire agreement including the release of all hostages.

International entities are urging Israel not to invade Rafah to prevent exacerbating the humanitarian crisis, as over a million Palestinians have been displaced.

The U.S. is advocating for improved humanitarian aid access in Gaza amidst high casualties and a tense situation with possible further conflict escalation.