US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed dismay over Hamas’s refusal to agree to a temporary ceasefire during a recent conversation with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty. He highlighted Hamas’s unwillingness to release any hostages in exchange for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid for Gaza. Blinken’s Middle East visit aimed to explore post-war plans following the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinouar. Meanwhile, Israel announced the impending ban of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, a move criticized by health officials for potentially worsening the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.