'Israeli' cabinet to discuss partial deal, temporary ceasefire: Hebrew media

'Israeli' Diplomatic-Security Cabinet is expected to hold a critical and potentially contentious meeting Sunday evening to assess the future of the war in Gaza, 'Israel Hayom' reported.

According to the report, 'Israeli' Occupation Forces (IOF) Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir is set to present updates on military operations, emphasizing that 'Israeli' forces now control nearly 75 percent of the Gaza Strip. Zamir’s assessment will also focus on progress toward dismantling Hamas infrastructure through the army’s multi-stage “Gideon chariots” plan.

In light of the IOF’s evaluation, the government earlier on Sunday approved the return of residents to 'Israeli' communities near Gaza that were evacuated after the October 7 event. The IOF claims there is no longer a security threat to prevent their return.

However, several senior officials have criticized the army’s position, warning that Hamas still retains organized forces, commanders, and control over the civilian population in the Strip.

The debate reflects growing divisions within 'Israel’s' leadership regarding the war’s direction and timeline. Government sources cited by 'Israel' Hayom argue that despite battlefield gains, Hamas has not been defeated and the war’s original objectives remain unmet.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich is expected to oppose the continued flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, asserting it undermines 'Israel’s' ability to pressure Hamas. National Missions and Settlements Minister Orit Strock is reportedly advocating for a “humanitarian separation” within the territory as a strategy to defeat the group.

Despite increasing pressure, sources close to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insist that ending the war is not currently on the table. Instead, discussions are focused on a possible phased captive deal, known as the “Witkoff framework”, that would involve the partial release of captives followed by a temporary pause in fighting.

Minister Dermer is expected to travel to the US on Monday to explore terms for such a deal, particularly in light of recent comments from US President Donald Trump suggesting a ceasefire may be within reach.

While some view the potential pause as a strategic regrouping opportunity for the military, others within the cabinet fear it could lead to a de facto permanent ceasefire under US pressure, potentially locking 'Israel' into a compromise before Hamas is fully dismantled.