The Israeli military raid on the Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza, where thousands of people are seeking refuge, is escalating. Reports from inside the hospital describe a dire situation, with people being detained and beaten, and fears that the hospital could become a mass grave. The Israeli military claims they are targeting “senior Hamas terrorists” at the hospital.
In addition to the ongoing raid, a UN-backed report warns of famine breaking out in northern Gaza, with a growing number of children facing acute hunger. The World Health Organization has raised concerns about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and accused Israel of potentially committing the war crime of famine by restricting aid.
US and Israeli officials are set to meet in Washington to discuss alternatives to a planned military ground offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where 1.5 million displaced people are seeking shelter. Meanwhile, ceasefire talks have stalled, with an Israeli delegation leaving Qatar without progress. However, mediators remain cautiously optimistic about restarting negotiations.
In a surprising move, the Israeli military has sent text messages to Palestinians in Gaza offering cash rewards for information about Israeli hostages. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to address Senate Republicans via video, while US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will visit Saudi Arabia and Egypt to discuss ceasefire efforts. Upcoming meetings between US and Israeli officials indicate ongoing efforts to find a resolution to the conflict.