Hamas official says terrorist organization has suspended hostage talks and will not return its delegation to Egypt for now.

Defense Minister meets families of hostages, says efforts to return their loved ones will continue even during Rafah operation,

Report of significant air and ground attacks in Rafah area

<p>Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu addressed the military actions begun by the IDF in Rafah this evening (Monday).</p><p>"Praying for the success of the IDF soldiers who are striking the abominable terrorists in Rafah. The end of Holocaust Remembrance Day is the beginning of the day of salvation. With the help of the God of Israel - we will fight. We will overcome. We will return. And we will win."</p>

Community of Elazar announces that resident Nahcman Hertz was killed by a kamikaze drone explosion in northern Israel, the 4th Elazar resident to be killed since October 7.

<p><span lang="EN-US">The chairman of the National Unity Party, Minister Benny Gantz, turned to the families of the hostages on Monday evening with a message regarding the talks on a hostage release deal.</span></p><p><span lang="EN-US">Gantz said, "We face a cruel enemy. The negotiating team and the professionals continue to work every minute and every moment, and are also examining the proposal put forward by Hamas, which does not correspond to the dialogue that has taken place so far with the mediators and has significant gaps. Despite this, we continue to turn over every stone and a delegation will go to Cairo."</span></p><p><span lang="EN-US">He added, "Every decision will be brought to the War Cabinet - there will be no political consideration. The military action in Rafah is also an inseparable part of our continued efforts and commitment to return our hostages and change the security reality in the south."</span></p>

6 rockets fired towards Sderot, 2 intercepted and 4 explode outside the city

Kamikaze drone explodes near northern Israeli town, damaging homes; IDF holds shootout with Hezbollah terrorists.