Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a political-security cabinet meeting that the current military approach has failed and hasn't led to the release of hostages, while IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir insists that encircling Gaza is the solution. Now, it appears the cabinet will approve deepening the maneuver to occupy Gaza City and that Israel will call for the evacuation of the population southward. Jerusalem will also issue an ultimatum to Hamas to surrender, and if they refuse - the IDF will enter the city and intensify the operation. Meanwhile, the negotiation team noted they received messages from mediators that the terrorist organization is softening its position and might agree to return to the negotiating table.