Israeli media reported that an Israeli negotiation team entered France on the 23rd to discuss a cessation of fighting with Hamas. With Hamas reportedly softening its stance, attention will be focused on whether this will lead to progress in negotiations.
The Israeli military remains poised to carry out ground operations in Rafah, the southernmost part of the Gaza Strip, as it is the last stronghold of Hamas. Israeli Defense Minister Gallant has said that he has "expanded the authority given to the negotiating team," and has expressed a positive attitude toward talks.