The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began with a Hamas incursion into Israel on October 7, continues to escalate, with no ceasefire deal in sight. This information contradicts earlier reports suggesting a Qatari-brokered deal had been reached. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with over 12,300 deaths reported, including more than 5,000 children, according to the Hamas government. The United Nations reports that approximately 1.6 million people have been displaced within the Gaza Strip due to six weeks of fighting.
In the midst of this conflict, thousands of family members and supporters of approximately 240 hostages held in Gaza marched in Jerusalem. The march, which concluded a five-day trek from Tel Aviv, criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the war with Hamas and urged the government to secure the release of their loved ones. This was the largest protest for the hostages since they were taken by Hamas on October 7 during a deadly attack in southern Israel.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Gaza's largest hospital, Al Shifa, a 'death zone' and plans to evacuate the facility. Most patients have left the hospital, with those remaining including 32 babies in extremely critical condition. Israel claims it has found a Hamas command and control center in the hospital, but has not produced evidence to back this up.
As the conflict continues, Israel is reportedly preparing to expand its offensive into southern Gaza. The IDF also reports more rockets have been exchanged across Israel's border with Lebanon as they tackle the Hezbollah militant group.