<p>A Palestinian Arab source told <i>Kan News</i> on Sunday that US President Donald Trump’s statement about believing a deal would be reached this week was primarily intended to create pressure on the parties, not because there is any breakthrough.</p>

<p>A fire broke out near the community of Meitzad in the Judean Desert on Monday. Thirteen firefighting teams and four firefighting aircraft are currently operating at the scene.</p><p>Israel's Fire and Rescue Services reported that the flames have reached the outskirts of residential homes. At this hour, emergency crews are focusing efforts on halting the spread of the blaze.</p>

Knesset Finance Committee approves gradual repeal of tax exemption on tobacco products brought into Israel from abroad; move is expected to generate over 100 million shekels annually.

<p>The Cabinet meeting held on Sunday evening at Southern Command concluded without a decision. The ministers were informed that there is no progress regarding a hostage deal.</p>

Two fatalities and multiple injuries reported as first responders to a brush fire in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, ambushed by active shooters.

<p>Residents in the Jerusalem neighborhoods of Ramot and Har Nof report a troubling wave of break-ins in these areas in recent days.</p><p>The latest incident occurred last Thursday when three suspects broke into an apartment in Ramot and fled the scene. Residents of Har Nof also report several similar incidents in recent nights. In response to the increasing cases, it was decided to bolster the presence of security forces in the neighborhoods.</p>

Israel’s strategic posture vis a vis the US is that of the largest US aircraft carrier, which does not require a single American on board, cannot be sunk, and is deployed in a most critical area. And there is much more. Analysis.

<p>Sergeant Yisrael Natan Rosenfeld was killed on Sunday in an explosive device blast in Gaza. His father Avi speaks of his son's strong sense of mission, saying he was always motivated.</p>