The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza continues to escalate, with Israeli forces reportedly closing in on Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar's suspected hideout in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have reportedly encircled the area and are in the third phase of ground operations.
The conflict has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis, with thousands of displaced civilians seeking shelter in the diminishing number of places designated as safe by Israel. The U.N. humanitarian office reports that most homeless people in Rafah are sleeping rough due to a lack of tents. Displaced civilians are also fleeing to the desolate area of Al Mawasi on Gaza's southern Mediterranean coast.
The death toll in Gaza has reached 16,015, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. The health ministry also reports a high number of casualties, with many women and children among the dead.
The UN secretary-general has warned that Gaza is at risk of a humanitarian system collapse and has called for a ceasefire. This call has been backed by the EU's foreign policy chief and New Zealand's deputy prime minister, who has expressed concern about the ongoing violence. However, Israel's UN Ambassador accused the secretary-general of bias against Israel.
In response to the crisis, Israel's security cabinet has agreed to allow a minimal amount of fuel into Gaza to prevent a humanitarian collapse. The British Defence Secretary will push for faster humanitarian aid delivery.
Meanwhile, the conflict has also had political implications. A new poll shows that Democratic views on President Biden's handling of the conflict have improved slightly. Attorney General Merrick Garland has stated that the Justice Department may seek charges against Hamas members who killed 30 Americans.