Israel’s war cabinet met Thursday to discuss hostage deal negotiations ahead of a planned Israeli incursion in Rafah, where much of Gaza’s displaced population is staying, said an Israeli official speaking on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. An Egyptian delegation will travel to Israel on Friday to discuss “security coordination,” the official said, signaling a resumption of efforts to secure a cease-fire and hostage release deal after months of failed talks. Earlier Thursday, President Biden appointed Lisa Grande as the new U.S. special envoy for Middle East humanitarian issues — a role created in the aftermath of Oct. 7 to coordinate aid to Gaza.
