The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to escalate, with Israeli forces encircling Gaza City and the Palestinian death toll rising above 9,000. The situation has prompted international concern, with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken arriving in Israel to push for a 'humanitarian pause' in the fighting.
The Israeli military has launched a series of strikes on the Gaza Strip, including a second strike on Gaza's Jabalia refugee camp, resulting in the death of another Hamas commander. The continuous air and ground attacks have led to a mass exodus of Palestinians from their homes.
In a recent development, the first group of civilian evacuees from the besieged enclave has crossed into Egypt. The evacuees have described dire conditions inside Gaza, with shortages of water, food, and shelter. The UN has raised concerns about the high number of civilian casualties, suggesting that these could be considered war crimes.
The U.S. House has passed a Republican-led aid bill for Israel, reflecting the U.S.'s unwavering support for the country. However, the White House has stated that it does not believe Hamas could be involved in governing Gaza when the war is over.
In the midst of the conflict, other diplomatic relations are also being affected. Germany has taken a stance against antisemitism, and Bahrain's diplomatic relations with Israel are under scrutiny. The U.S. Secretary of Education has also met with Jewish students to discuss antisemitism on college campuses.
The conflict has also impacted Thai hostages held by Hamas, with Thailand in talks with Iran and other governments for their release. The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has vowed to destroy Hamas rule in the Gaza Strip, further escalating tensions in the region.