The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have ordered evacuations in central Gaza as they prepare for an offensive in the area. At the same time, Israel and Hamas are reportedly making progress towards a hostage-ceasefire deal. CIA Director Bill Burns is set to meet with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in an attempt to bridge the remaining gaps between the two sides. The deal on the table includes a six-week pause in fighting, during which Hamas would release 30 hostages in exchange for Israel releasing hundreds of Palestinian security prisoners. Despite progress, major obstacles remain in the negotiations.