Over the past hour, Qassam forces, under the direct orders of Izz al-Din al-Haddad, deployed fighters to Gaza City's Sabra neighborhood to continue attacks against the Dughmush family. Meanwhile, Red Cross offices in Deir al-Balah are preparing to receive Palestinian prisoners scheduled for release, according to AFP. These events unfold as the IDF Givati Brigade concluded operations deep inside Gaza and returned to the ceasefire line. The escalating conflict involves the Aqel family, with a commander from the Sahm Unit arriving at the Jordanian Hospital with armed men, demanding the evacuation of Dughmush family members sheltering there. After a confrontation, the Aqel commander was killed, reportedly by a Dughmush son. Separately, Chef José Andrés and the World Central Kitchen team were preparing meals for hostage families awaiting the return of their loved ones. This comes amidst ongoing preparations for hostage and prisoner exchanges, with Israeli defense sources having previously indicated Hamas began moving hostages. Previous reports detailed Hamas's Arrow Unit carrying out field executions and apprehending clan members, with clashes resulting in numerous casualties among Dughmush clan members. U.S. President Donald Trump had previously expressed optimism about a diplomatic achievement and support from Muslim and Arab countries for ongoing efforts. Earlier reports indicated that Hamas had claimed full control of Gaza City following clashes with the Dughmush clan. Preparations for hostage releases included IDF special forces readiness and preliminary identification processes. A planned summit on October 13th, 2025, in Pisgat Sharm-Sheikh was set to include President Trump and Egyptian President Abd al-Fattah A-Sisi, among others, but not Israel, the Palestinian Authority, or Hamas.
