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Per my conversations with two US officials, this is how we should understand the last 7 hours:
Per my conversations with two US officials, this is how we should understand the last 7 hours:
Today’s barrage of intensified Israeli strikes ahead of an imminent ground invasion - coupled with US calling again for a humanitarian pause - was a negotiating tool to push for hostage releases.
Basically, one last big push to get hostages out before ground invasion begins.
Basically, one last big push to get hostages out before ground invasion begins.
As of this AM, Israel’s plan was to send a division into Gaza as strikes intensified– beginning around noon eastern.
For the last several hours, Israel held off large-scale ground offensive, instead sending more limited force as US stepped up calls for pause to get hostages out.
For the last several hours, Israel held off large-scale ground offensive, instead sending more limited force as US stepped up calls for pause to get hostages out.
This was designed to allow one last chance for Hamas to be convinced that now is the time to trade // seriously discuss concessions.
As of now, there is no progress on hostage discussions to announce.
That said, this time did allow for Israel to learn more about the environment, gather intel, as they prepare to do more.
That said, this time did allow for Israel to learn more about the environment, gather intel, as they prepare to do more.
I asked about ABC report that US/Israeli officials have indicated tonight’s ground incursion is not a large-scale offensive – and if that is an indication the pressure plan is working...
...The response didn’t directly answer the question, but I’m told Israel “has heard our concerns” – ie. about the need to take every possible step to mitigate civilian casualties.
The US continues to express support for humanitarian pauses if hostage releases would be successful.
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