Israeli forces are expanding their operation in the Gaza Strip, urging residents to evacuate specific areas, including the largest refugee camp, Jabalia. Qatari mediators report nearing a deal to release some of the 240 hostages held by Hamas militants.
The military, focusing on targeting terrorists and striking Hamas infrastructure, faced criticism for strikes on Jabalia, resulting in over 80 casualties, including at a UN school shelter. The UN rights chief condemned the strike as “horrifying.”
Israel, justifying its offensive against Hamas, presented evidence of Hamas using Gaza’s largest hospital, Al-Shifa, to hide hostages. Israel vowed to eradicate Hamas and free the hostages, while Qatari mediators expressed optimism about a potential deal.
The situation has garnered international attention, with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi calling for urgent action to prevent a “humanitarian disaster” in Gaza. The World Health Organization evacuated premature babies from Al-Shifa, labeling it a “death zone.”
As negotiations progress, the fate of the hostages, including infants, teens, and pensioners, remains uncertain. US deputy national security adviser Jon Finer expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing that “nothing is agreed until everything is agreed.”
In London, the emotional plea of a father searching for his missing 9-year-old daughter adds a personal dimension to the ongoing crisis.
