The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to escalate, with significant developments on both the diplomatic and humanitarian fronts. A potential U.S. and Qatari-brokered hostage release deal is reportedly in progress, which could see Hamas free dozens of Israeli hostages in exchange for Israel's release of jailed Palestinians. This development comes amidst growing concerns over a potential humanitarian disaster in Gaza, particularly in the northern part, due to Israel's call for an evacuation.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog has suggested that a 'very strong force' may need to remain in Gaza to prevent the re-emergence of the Hamas militant group after the war. This statement has been met with caution from U.S. President Joe Biden, who warned that occupying Gaza would be a 'big mistake'. Despite this, Washington has increased its military presence in the Middle East to prevent the conflict from spreading and to deter Iran, a long-time backer of Hamas, from getting involved.
On the humanitarian front, the Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza has reportedly stopped functioning due to a fuel shortage, leading to the death of babies and other patients. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have been accused of causing the crisis, with claims that Hamas' operation center is under the hospital. The IDF has offered 300 liters of fuel to the hospital, but this was rejected as it would not be enough to keep the hospital running. The Center for Constitutional Rights is requesting a federal court order to stop the U.S. government's support of Israel's siege on Gaza.
Despite the UN Security Council passing a resolution for extended humanitarian pauses in Gaza, calls for a ceasefire remain unheeded. The United States, United Kingdom, and Russia abstained from the vote. President Biden has stated it is 'not realistic' to expect Israel to stop the Gaza war and reiterated the claim of a Hamas base at al-Shifa Hospital, but offered no proof.