Gaza City is currently a high-risk combat zone as Israel embarks on a planned offensive that has received widespread international condemnation. The Israeli military has announced the suspension of midday pauses in fighting, which previously allowed food and aid to enter the city from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Israel reports recovering the body of a hostage, Ilan Weiss, killed during the initial Hamas attack, along with remains of another captive. This move aims to reassure families of ongoing efforts to recover hostages as the humanitarian situation for thousands of displaced residents continues to deteriorate.
Father of hostage reacts to recovery
Rubi Chen, father of a hostage believed to still be held by Hamas, expressed mixed emotions about the recovery of Weiss's remains. It’s a bittersweet moment for the Weiss family as they get closure, but there are still many families longing for answers, he shared.
Prime Minister Netanyahu's remarks
Prime Minister Netanyahu detailed the recovery operation, asserting the commitment to bring all hostages home. The campaign continues without rest until every last hostage is accounted for, he stated.
Intensified military operations
As Israeli forces ramp up their assault, their military spokesperson confirmed ongoing operations with the promise of increased strikes on Gaza City, identifying Hamas as a wounded and weakened organization.
Humanitarian impact
The UN's humanitarian agency has voiced grave concerns regarding the escalating military actions, highlighting the expected catastrophic effects on the exhausted and malnourished local population.
Hostage recovery ongoing
Israel has recovered the remains of hostages, including one deceased and another whose identity is being confirmed. Of the 251 hostages taken, roughly 50 are still believed to be in Gaza.
Community shelters within city
A spokesman for Gaza's only Catholic church reported that approximately 440 individuals have taken refuge there. They decided to stay voluntarily, fostering a sense of safety even as military action looms. It's a collective decision made freely by those sheltering here, he stated.
