US President Donald Trump stated that it appears Hamas will disarm, although a senior Hamas official has denied this claim. Trump made the assertion during a cabinet meeting, with his envoy Steve Witkoff echoing the sentiment that Hamas will have no choice but to surrender their weapons. US Ambassador Mike Waltz outlined plans for an international buy-back program aimed at encouraging Hamas to hand over arms in exchange for funds, jobs, and amnesty, as part of a broader decommissioning initiative.

Trump also credited Hamas with assisting in the recovery of the last deceased hostage in Gaza, a claim not yet confirmed by Israel. Following the recovery, the International Committee of the Red Cross facilitated the transfer of 15 Palestinian bodies to Gaza, maintaining a 15:1 ratio of Palestinian bodies for each hostage returned. The ICRC highlighted its ongoing role in reuniting families and supporting the ceasefire agreement, noting the importance of reopening the Rafah Crossing for humanitarian efforts.

Meanwhile, Israel confirmed an airstrike in central Gaza targeting a Hamas operative accused of planning attacks against Israeli troops. The strike reportedly killed at least two people and was carried out with measures to minimize civilian casualties.