Ceasefire developments: Shin Bet chief heads to Cairo, “Israeli” leaders criticize Netanyahu

Hebrew media reported that Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar traveled to Cairo with a delegation to advance negotiations for a prisoner exchange deal.

Meanwhile, sources cited by the Israeli Broadcasting Authority (IBA) raised concerns among security officials regarding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu potentially obstructing the deal. 

These concerns stem from fears within Netanyahu's government about the repercussions that could follow, including potential destabilization.

During a meeting convened by Netanyahu to discuss negotiation strategy, participants reportedly criticized his stringent precondition demands, highlighting internal disagreements over the approach to the talks.

Further complicating matters, the IBA confirmed that leaders of security agencies were surprised by a statement from Netanyahu's office regarding the exchange deal.

Earlier, Reuters quoted Netanyahu emphasizing that any agreement must allow "Israel" to continue military operations until all war objectives are achieved. 

He also stressed the necessity for the deal to effectively prevent weapons smuggling to Hamas through the Egyptian border.

Netanyahu's office asserted that his firm stance against halting the Rafah operation played a pivotal role in prompting Hamas to engage in negotiations. He clarified that "Israel's" proposed terms include the return of detainees without compromising on its strategic goals.

Additionally, Hebrew Channel 13 reported that Netanyahu introduced a new condition to "Israel's" negotiation terms: the inspection of returnees to northern Gaza, underscoring "Israel's" security concerns amid ongoing discussions.