South Africa's Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein has condemned international calls for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, arguing that it would embolden terrorist organizations and is morally wrong. Meanwhile, Qatari and Egyptian officials are meeting with Hamas negotiators to push for a ceasefire and hostage deal, but U.S. doubts persist due to Hamas's new demands. White House spokesman John Kirby has expressed skepticism about Hamas's willingness to come to the table sincerely, especially after the murder of six Israeli hostages. Despite President Joe Biden's optimism, U.S. officials believe that both sides' hardened positions make a near-term deal unlikely. Goldstein and Western officials have criticized the slow delivery of weapons to Israel, arguing that this approach is misguided.