Israeli forces have targeted a senior Hamas official in a deadly strike on the Palestinian-controlled side of the Yellow Line in Gaza, an area divided since a fragile ceasefire began in October. The official has been one of Israel's most wanted figures for over twenty years. The attack comes amid ongoing efforts to resolve the aftermath of the Hamas-led assault on southern Israel, which resulted in significant casualties and hostages.

The first phase of a United States-led peace plan required the return of hostages, with most accounted for except for one missing Israeli police officer. Since the conflict escalated, tens of thousands of Palestinians have reportedly been killed by Israeli military actions.

Diplomatic attention is now turning to the next stage of the peace plan, which calls for the disarmament of Hamas and the establishment of a transitional Palestinian governance structure. The plan also proposes international oversight and eventual control by a reformed Palestinian Authority, aiming to pave the way for Palestinian self-determination.

However, the plan faces controversy in Israel, where the idea of a Palestinian state remains highly contested. Discussions between the United States president and Israel's prime minister are scheduled to address these issues.