Israeli officials have stated that a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip is imminent, as the conflict between Hamas and Israel reaches a critical point. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected President Biden’s call for a ceasefire and tensions have escalated further with increasing attacks on American forces in the region. Israel has surrounded Gaza City and claims to have effectively divided the Gaza Strip. Despite a corridor for civilians to evacuate, it is difficult for them to escape as Israel continues its bombardment.
The death toll in Gaza has exceeded 10,000, while Netanyahu insists on a ceasefire only if Hamas releases over 200 hostages. Concerns about the conflict spreading have led the Pentagon to send more weaponry, but there are warnings of the war expanding in the region.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken has discussed the crisis in Gaza during his Middle East trip, aiming to expand humanitarian aid and prevent the conflict from spreading further. Outside the United Nations, demonstrations have taken place, with tragic news emerging of 89 UN employees killed while providing aid in Gaza..
