July 11, 2024

Truce Talks and Hostages

• Numerous reports suggest that progress has been made in talks towards a comprehensive deal. The agreement would likely see a release of hostages in numerous stages, the freeing of a large number of terrorists from Israeli jails (including those serving time for the murder of civilians), and a prolonged ceasefire.
• An emerging deal would see both Israel and Hamas acknowledge that neither side would rule Gaza once an agreement is complete.
• Yesterday, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah said that the Lebanese terror group would also abide by an agreement, even though they are not formally a party to the deal.
• Indirect talks, facilitated by mediators from the US, Qatar, and Egypt, continue. The US says it is cautiously optimistic about the negotiations.
• See here for the full list of those still being held hostage by Hamas.

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Activities

• Significant rocket fire continues in the north. At least thirty rockets were launched at the Golan Heights yesterday, and a female IDF soldier was injured during an attack by three Hezbollah UAVs. Barrages continue today, with at least one person critically injured.
• A young couple, Nir and Noa Baranes, were killed on Tuesday when a Hezbollah rocket hit their car in the Golan. The couple left behind three children. See a complete list of civilians killed since October 7 here.
• In response, the IDF conducted widespread bombings of terror targets in southern Lebanon.
• Since October, among the thousands of attacks on Israel, Hezbollah has launched some 400 drones at the Jewish state, some of which have been used for surveillance purposes and many of which carry explosive payloads. This number has dramatically increased in recent weeks, with 130 drones being fired in June alone. Hezbollah has also launched drones to film propaganda videos that show Israeli military bases in the north. 

Read full update...