October
Wednesday
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The day began with the Global Sumud Flotilla entering a "danger zone" near Gaza, while Israeli media heavily focused on President Trump's Gaza peace plan, discussing Netanyahu's reluctant alignment and Hamas's expected rejection. An IDF probe into the October 7 Nir Am battle highlighted defensive actions that prevented a larger catastrophe. By mid-morning, the Gaza-bound flotilla was nearing Israeli waters, with Spain and Italy demanding its halt, and renewed military operations in Gaza saw the IDF encircling Gaza City amid rocket fire and a deadline for residents to leave.

The focus shifted dramatically in the early afternoon, with reports of President Trump signing an unprecedented defense agreement with Qatar, reportedly considering any attack on Qatar a threat to U.S. security, following an earlier Israeli attack.
Thursday
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The day's initial focus included an Israeli interception of a Gaza flotilla and reports on the Abraham Accords' end. However, editorial attention decisively shifted to a terror attack in Manchester, UK. Beginning in the early afternoon, headlines consistently reported two fatalities and multiple injuries near a synagogue on Yom Kippur, with the assailant shot. Throughout the afternoon and evening, coverage intensified, detailing the attacker's methods (ramming, stabbing), the heroic actions of a Rabbi who prevented a larger tragedy, and increased security. By evening, the assailant was identified as Jihad Al-Shami, a Syrian-British citizen, and concerns about rising antisemitism in the UK were highlighted. Meanwhile, Hamas's rejection of President Trump's peace plan also received continued attention.
Friday
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The day's media coverage continued focusing on the Manchester synagogue attack aftermath and ongoing European protests against Israel. Early reports discussed Hamas's internal debates and demands for changes to President Trump's peace plan. By midday, a Hamas terror cell was reported foiled in Germany with Mossad assistance. The most significant shift occurred in the late afternoon and evening: President Trump issued an ultimatum to Hamas, demanding a response to his peace plan by early next week, threatening severe consequences. Following this, Hamas officially announced its willingness to release all hostages and enter negotiations, though also requesting clarifications and changes to Trump's proposal. Simultaneously, Trump publicly called on Israel to immediately cease bombing Gaza.
Saturday
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The day focused on the immediate halt of Israeli offensive operations in Gaza, transitioning the IDF to a defensive posture in preparation for a hostage release, following President Trump's call for a ceasefire. Early reports detailed Israel's readiness for the first phase of the plan. By afternoon, attention shifted to the resumption of hostage negotiation talks in Cairo, with expectations of a swift conclusion, potentially within days. Trump then issued an ultimatum to Hamas, demanding rapid progress. The day culminated with Trump presenting a new withdrawal map for Gaza, stating Israel's agreement to an initial withdrawal line pending Hamas's approval for a ceasefire and hostage release.
Sunday
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The day began with reports of a Houthi missile interception in central Israel, occurring amidst ongoing discussions surrounding President Trump's Gaza withdrawal map. Concurrently, David Zini was appointed as the new head of the Shin Bet. Throughout the morning, Israeli media focused on Hamas's internal divisions regarding the Trump plan and the upcoming negotiations. The afternoon saw Prime Minister Netanyahu assert that no progress on the peace plan would occur until all hostages were released. Later, President Trump issued a strong ultimatum to Hamas, threatening "complete obliteration" if it refused to cede power in Gaza. The day concluded with Hamas announcing it had begun collecting the bodies of deceased hostages, requesting a ceasefire for this purpose, while an Israeli delegation was set to depart for Cairo for negotiations.
Monday
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October 6th saw Israeli media predominantly focused on the ongoing hostage negotiation talks in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. Early reports highlighted President Trump's optimism, with a US delegation arriving in the morning and Trump expressing confidence that the first phase of an agreement could be reached this week.

Throughout the day, discussions centered on the Israeli delegation's arrival in Egypt and Prime Minister Netanyahu's directives, emphasizing the tight timeframe for negotiations. By evening, Trump's confidence grew, stating a signal from Iran indicated their desire for a deal and that he was "pretty sure" a deal would be reached.

The two-year anniversary of the October 7th attacks also received significant coverage, featuring personal testimonies and reflections on the conflict's impact.
Tuesday
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October 7th, two years after the attacks, dominated Israeli media. Morning reports detailed personal testimonies, reflections on the tragedy, and calls for rebuilding. Concurrently, reports on hostage negotiation talks in Egypt continued, with initial cautious optimism surrounding a potential deal following Hamas's agreement to discuss Trump's plan. By early afternoon, media highlighted a significant obstacle in negotiations, with a senior Hamas official reportedly hardening positions by demanding a link between hostage release and a full withdrawal from Gaza. President Trump expressed optimism for a swift resolution. In the evening, national memorial ceremonies were held in Tel Aviv's Yarkon Park, drawing thousands and featuring emotional speeches from hostages' mothers.
Wednesday
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Israeli media focused overwhelmingly on the developing hostage negotiations in Sharm el-Sheikh. Initial reports in the morning indicated persistent difficulties in talks, with Hamas demanding the release of the bodies of the Sinwar brothers. However, by late morning, an "optimistic atmosphere" began to emerge, with US envoys Witkoff and Kushner committing to stay until a deal was reached.

In the afternoon, Israeli officials expressed cautious optimism about nearing the completion of the first phase of a deal, with a signing anticipated within days. Concurrently, a video of Nepalese hostage Bipin Joshi emerged, adding urgency to the talks.

The evening culminated with President Trump expressing strong optimism, indicating a deal was "very close" and that he might travel to the Middle East by Sunday, reinforcing the media's focus on an imminent agreement. Later reports suggested a deal could be finalized within hours, with Hamas reportedly agreeing to the terms and Trump poised to announce the breakthrough.
Thursday
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Israeli media overwhelmingly focused on President Trump's announcement early on October 9th that a hostage deal with Hamas was finalized, with releases expected by Monday. This followed days of intense negotiations. Initial reports suggested releases could begin as early as Saturday or Sunday, with Trump's arrival in Israel anticipated. Throughout the morning, details emerged about a ceasefire set to begin at 12:00 PM and the Israeli government's impending cabinet meeting to approve the agreement. Later in the afternoon, Trump declared the Gaza war over and hostages would return on Monday or Tuesday. The government's cabinet meeting was delayed but ultimately convened, with Witkoff and Kushner in attendance. Despite opposition from Smotrich and Ben-Gvir, the government officially approved the deal by late evening, with hostages expected within 72 hours. Discussions also included the non-release of Marwan Barghouti and the Sinwar brothers' bodies, and the establishment of an international force to locate deceased captives.
Friday
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Israeli media on October 10th primarily focused on the government's official approval of the hostage deal and the subsequent Gaza ceasefire. This followed days of intense negotiations culminating in President Trump's announcement. Reports early in the day confirmed the ceasefire's effectiveness, despite the death of Sgt. First Class (res.) Michael Mordechai Nachmani from sniper fire just hours before it began.

Throughout the morning, outlets highlighted the IDF's withdrawal from Gaza City towards the "Yellow Line," completed by noon, which initiated the 72-hour countdown for hostage release. Last-minute changes to the list of released prisoners were also reported, with Hamas members replacing Fatah.

In the late morning, Prime Minister Netanyahu defended the deal, stating he resisted immense pressure and refuted claims that the deal was long available. He also warned of further demilitarization of Gaza. By afternoon, the media focused on preparations for the hostages' return, potentially as early as Sunday, with a diplomatic emphasis on US guarantees and a dramatic clause Israel insisted on regarding aid to Gaza. Discussions also continued on the opening of the Rafah crossing and an upcoming summit in Egypt attended by Trump.
Saturday
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Israeli media on October 11th focused primarily on the impending release of hostages, with early reports citing President Trump's assertion that captives would return on Monday, and some potentially deceased. Discussions also included the low ratio of Hamas operatives among released prisoners. Throughout the morning, reports highlighted the transfer of prisoners for exchange and Hamas's rejection of foreign guardianship over Gaza. In the afternoon, attention shifted to the tragic suicide of Roei Shalev, a Nova Music Festival survivor. Concurrently, US envoy Witkoff visited Gaza to confirm IDF withdrawal and later addressed a rally at Hostages' Square, receiving applause but also boos for mentions of Netanyahu. By evening, Hamas officials indicated that hostage releases would begin on Monday morning.
Sunday
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Israeli media on October 12th was dominated by the imminent release of hostages. Early reports anticipated releases beginning Monday morning, with ongoing preparations and updates to families. Concurrently, a previously unrevealed military cooperation between Israel and Arab nations during the war was highlighted. By late morning, Hamas announced readiness to release 20 live hostages today, leading to speculation that this might occur before President Trump's arrival. However, by early afternoon, the Prime Minister's office and several outlets confirmed the release would commence tomorrow morning, specifically at 8:00 AM, in two phases from three Gaza locations, with the Red Cross facilitating the handover. Later in the day, IDF Chief of Staff Zamir declared victory over Hamas, a statement Prime Minister Netanyahu immediately contradicted, emphasizing that the "campaign is not over."
Monday
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Israeli media on October 13th was overwhelmingly focused on the release of all 20 living hostages from Hamas captivity, a development anticipated from previous days' reporting. The process began in the early morning, with the first seven hostages handed over to the Red Cross and subsequently to IDF forces, arriving in Israel. Initial reports confirmed their relatively good condition. By mid-morning, the remaining 13 living hostages were also transferred to the Red Cross, leading to widespread declarations that all living hostages were free. Concurrently, President Trump arrived in Israel and addressed the Knesset, declaring the Gaza war over and celebrating the hostages' return. In the afternoon, attention shifted to the return of four deceased hostages, with reports highlighting Hamas's failure to return all 28 slain captives as initially agreed and detailing the harsh conditions endured by the returned hostages during their 738 days in captivity.
Tuesday
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Israeli media on October 14th focused extensively on the return and identification of deceased hostages. The day began with reports of four bodies, including Guy Illouz and Bipin Joshi, returned to Israel, with Hamas initially failing to return all promised deceased captives. This led to Israeli threats of sanctions, including closing the Rafah crossing and reducing aid. Later in the day, Hamas announced the imminent return of four additional deceased hostages, expected late tonight and tomorrow. By early evening, the Red Cross was en route, and subsequently received four coffins, which were then transferred to IDF forces and crossed into Israeli territory for identification. Unlike yesterday, Hamas did not release the identities of these four.
Wednesday
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Israeli media on October 15th began with the return of four deceased hostages, though only Uriel Baruch, Tamir Nimrodi, and Eitan Levi were identified, with a fourth body determined to be a Gazan citizen. Attention then shifted significantly to a criminal shooting on Route 443, resulting in two fatalities and multiple injuries, suspected to be a clan dispute. In the evening, Hamas announced and subsequently transferred two additional deceased hostages to the Red Cross, claiming these were all they could access. Concurrently, the funeral of Captain Daniel Peretz was held, attended by released captive Matan Angrest, and President Trump threatened renewed Israeli military action if Hamas violated the agreement.
Thursday
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Israeli media on October 16th initially focused on the return and identification of two deceased hostages, Inbar Haiman and Mohammed Al-Atrash, with Tamir Nimrodi and Muhammad Al-Atrash later laid to rest. Simultaneously, reports detailed the harrowing experiences of other former hostages, including Eitan Horn and Nimrod Cohen, released from the hospital to enthusiastic welcomes. Amidst this, an international team began work in Gaza to locate additional deceased hostage remains, as Israel increased pressure on Hamas, threatening reduced aid if more bodies were not returned. President Trump also issued strong warnings to Hamas. Concurrently, Houthi Chief of Staff Muhammad Abd Al-Karim al-Ghamari was confirmed killed in an Israeli attack.
Friday
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Israeli media on October 17th primarily focused on the return of another deceased hostage from Gaza. Early reports highlighted President Trump's threats against Hamas, linking the delay in returning deceased hostages to potential renewed military action and the progression of the agreement's next phase. Coverage throughout the morning extensively featured the funeral of Inbar Hayman, the last deceased hostage returned from Gaza, with thousands attending. In the evening, news shifted to Hamas's announcement of locating and returning an additional deceased hostage, with Israel preparing for the transfer. Subsequent reports tracked the Red Cross's journey to receive the remains in southern Gaza, their transfer to IDF forces, and the arrival of the coffin in Israel for forensic identification. Discussions also included the harrowing experiences of recently returned hostages and the potential expansion of the Abraham Accords.
Saturday
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Israeli media primarily focused on the return of deceased hostages from Gaza throughout October 18th. The day began with the arrival and identification of Eliyahu Margalit's body, murdered in Nir Oz on October 7th, marking a continuation of previous days' efforts to retrieve fallen captives. As the day progressed, the focus shifted to Prime Minister Netanyahu's decision to keep the Rafah crossing closed, directly linking its opening to Hamas fulfilling its commitments regarding deceased hostages. In the evening, Hamas announced it would return two more deceased hostages, with reports tracking the Red Cross's involvement and the subsequent transfer of the bodies to IDF forces and into Israel for identification. This ongoing narrative was underscored by continued protests from hostage families, demanding accountability and the return of all remaining captives.
Sunday
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Israeli media on October 19th initially focused on the return and identification of Ronen Engel, a deceased hostage from Gaza, followed by the identification of Sonthaya Oakkharasr. However, the narrative shifted dramatically as Hamas violated the ceasefire with an anti-tank missile attack on an IDF engineering vehicle in Rafah. This incident triggered extensive Israeli airstrikes across Gaza, including tunnels previously used to hold hostages. Prime Minister Netanyahu ordered a forceful response, and in a significant development, the political leadership decided to halt humanitarian aid to Gaza. The day culminated with the tragic announcement of the deaths of Major Yaniv Kula and Staff Sergeant Itay Yaabetz in the Rafah attack.
Monday
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Israeli media on October 20th prominently featured the return of a slain hostage, Tal Haimi, whose remains were transferred from Gaza by Hamas via the Red Cross to IDF forces for identification. Concurrently, the Knesset's winter session opened chaotically. Speaker Amir Ohana's refusal to acknowledge Justice Isaac Amit as "President of the Supreme Court" ignited widespread condemnation from President Trump's envoys and the opposition. Prime Minister Netanyahu responded by stating Amit is president, but he is prime minister. Discussions also continued on Trump's threats against Hamas and the rising concerns about the conscription crisis within the coalition.
Tuesday
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The day began with prominent coverage of the return and identification of fallen hostage Tal Haimi, whose body was returned from Gaza. US Vice President J.D. Vance arrived in Israel, with discussions expected to focus on advancing phase two of the agreement, including an international force for locating casualties. Concurrently, Hamas's alleged involvement in Gaza's future technocratic government was reported. In the afternoon, Hamas announced the impending release of two more deceased hostages, following a renewed threat from President Trump regarding ceasefire adherence. The Red Cross received these bodies in southern Gaza, which were then transferred to Israeli custody for identification at the forensic center.
Wednesday
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The day's significant developments began with Israeli media reporting the return and identification of two deceased hostages, Arie Zalmanowicz and Tamir Adar, from Gaza. This event brought the number of deceased hostages still held in Gaza to 13. Concurrently, US Vice President Vance arrived in Jerusalem, meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu to discuss the Gaza ceasefire and disarming Hamas. Despite Netanyahu's opposition and Vance's visit, the Knesset, on a close vote, preliminarily approved a bill to apply Israeli sovereignty in Judea and Samaria, leading to internal coalition tensions and the removal of MK Edelstein from a key committee. Later, reports detailed the harsh captivity of released hostage Nimrod Cohen and concerns about Hamas regaining control and civil administration in Gaza post-ceasefire, alongside ongoing US efforts to advance the Trump plan, emphasizing Israel's conditions and red lines.
Thursday
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The day's headlines were dominated by the escalating diplomatic tensions surrounding West Bank annexation. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that Knesset approval of West Bank sovereignty threatened the Gaza ceasefire deal. This prompted further warnings from US Vice President Vance, who explicitly rejected the move as "foolish" and stated the US would not permit it. Subsequently, President Trump issued a strong warning that Israel would lose all US support if it proceeded with annexation. In response, Prime Minister Netanyahu halted the annexation legislation amidst the fierce US opposition. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Smotrich apologized for controversial remarks regarding Saudi normalization with a Palestinian state. The IDF also reported eliminating the terrorists responsible for the kidnapping of Noa Argamani, Avinatan Or, and Eitan Mor.
Friday
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The day began with Israeli media focusing on President Trump's strong statements against West Bank annexation, with warnings that Israel risked losing US support. Reports also highlighted growing US frustration with Israel, with a "firm message" conveyed to Prime Minister Netanyahu via Vice President Vance regarding Gaza and annexation concerns.

Later in the morning, US Secretary of State Rubio's visit intensified the focus on Gaza's future, emphasizing US demands for Hamas to disarm and a post-Hamas governing force acceptable to Israel. Reports also continued about the potential return of deceased hostages, although by evening, military assessments indicated no immediate indication of additional bodies being released. Concurrently, US surveillance drones were reported to be monitoring the ceasefire over Gaza.
Saturday
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The day began with reports of Hamas militants, released by Israel, celebrating in a luxury Cairo hotel. Concurrently, US drones were said to be monitoring the Gaza ceasefire. Later in the morning, Israeli media focused on Hamas's resurgence in Gaza, with reports of their regaining control and rearming.

In the early afternoon, reports suggested Hamas might release deceased hostages, though this was later characterized as a bluff. As the day progressed, an Egyptian team entered Gaza, reportedly at US insistence, to locate and assist in the return of deceased hostages. This was followed by President Trump's statements about Qatar potentially sending troops to a Gaza peacekeeping force. By evening, Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Hamas regarding the return of deceased hostages.
Sunday
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The day's Israeli media coverage opened with President Trump's 48-hour ultimatum to Hamas for the return of deceased hostages, a demand that resonated across numerous outlets and continued from the previous day. Early morning reports highlighted an Egyptian team's entry into Gaza to assist in locating these bodies.

By late morning, the focus shifted to the Red Cross initiating searches for deceased hostages in Gaza, specifically in the Rafah area and east of Gaza City, with reports indicating Israeli belief that bodies might be in IDF-controlled zones. Concurrently, the Attorney General voiced strong opposition to a proposed bill aimed at delaying Prime Minister Netanyahu's trial, viewing it as an attempt to "escape judgment."

In the early afternoon, Mossad revealed an Iranian terror network operating in Australia, Greece, and Germany, identifying "Sardar Ammar" as its leader. By the evening, reports confirmed Israeli authorization for Hamas, the Red Cross, and Egyptian teams to locate deceased hostages in Gaza, including within IDF-controlled areas, specifically mentioning efforts to find Hadar Goldin's remains. This coincided with news of several recently returned hostages heading home from hospitals. Political tensions also arose around the conscription law, with leaked recordings revealing Haredi criticism of Netanyahu.
Monday
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Israeli media on October 27 primarily focused on the return of a deceased hostage's body from Gaza, in the hours leading up to President Trump's ultimatum deadline. Morning reports highlighted ongoing efforts to locate and return the bodies of deceased hostages, with Hamas citing difficulties due to altered terrain. By early afternoon, reports detailed Hamas's potential return of 7-9 deceased hostages, with Israel awaiting US approval for further action. In the evening, the Red Cross was confirmed to be en route to receive a deceased hostage's coffin from northern Gaza, with Hamas stating it would deliver the remains by 9 PM. The day concluded with the coffin successfully transferred to IDF forces and transported to Israel for identification.
Tuesday
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The day opened with the return of a deceased hostage's coffin, which was quickly revealed to contain remains of Ofir Tzarfati, a hostage already returned in December 2023. This deception, widely reported and captured by IDF drone footage showing Hamas staging the discovery, sparked anger and led Prime Minister Netanyahu to convene urgent security consultations. Concurrently, Hamas announced it would return another deceased hostage later in the evening. However, this commitment was soon retracted following renewed heavy exchanges of fire in Rafah, as Hamas forces violated the ceasefire by attacking Israeli troops. Netanyahu ordered "powerful strikes" in Gaza in response, with US Vice President Vance supporting Israel's right to retaliate. The day ended with Hamas claiming to have located the remains of Amiram Cooper and Sahar Baruch.
Wednesday
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The day opened with the death of reservist Yona Ephraim Peldebaum in Rafah, killed by enemy fire, which prompted renewed Israeli strikes in Gaza. A ceasefire was subsequently reinstated, with US President Trump supporting Israel's right to respond. In parallel, the Supreme Court debated the conscription of yeshiva students, drawing significant media attention. By early afternoon, the Knesset preliminarily approved a bill to split the Attorney General's role. Attention then shifted to a criminal investigation into a leaked Shde Teiman video, leading to the Chief Military Prosecutor's leave of absence amid suspicions of her involvement. The day concluded with the controversial proposed appointment of Yair Netanyahu to a senior, ministerial-level role in the World Zionist Organization, which was ultimately delayed by two weeks due to political backlash.
Thursday
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The day's Israeli media was overwhelmingly dominated by the massive Haredi anti-conscription protest in Jerusalem. In the morning, extensive coverage focused on widespread transportation disruptions, including road closures and overcrowded trains, as demonstrators converged on the city. In the early afternoon, the protest continued, but a tragic turn of events occurred when a 15-year-old fell to his death from a construction site, leading to clashes between Haredi protesters and police, and the demonstration's eventual dispersal. Concurrently, Hamas announced the return of two deceased hostages' remains, identified later in the evening as Amiram Cooper and Sahar Baruch, which were transferred to the Red Cross and subsequently to the IDF. Additionally, discussions continued regarding new details about the Shde Teiman leak, with reports emerging of a Shin Bet polygraph test that led to the investigation.
Friday
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The day's Israeli media overwhelmingly focused on the dramatic resignation of Chief Military Prosecutor Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi. In the morning, news broke that Defense Minister Israel Katz dismissed her due to suspicions related to the Sde Teiman video leak. By mid-morning, Tomer-Yerushalmi formally resigned, admitting she authorized the release of material to the media to counter what she termed "false propaganda." This admission intensified the discourse, with reports detailing the allegations against her and the impending police investigation. Discussions also centered on the process for selecting her replacement, with Defense Minister Katz expected to make the final decision. Concurrently, the return of two slain hostages' remains, Amiram Cooper and Sahar Baruch, continued to be a prominent topic, with three more remains transferred by the Red Cross in the evening.
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