Live updates | Israel says it’s prepared to fight for months to defeat Hamas

Israel is intensifying its ground offensive against Gaza’s Hamas rulers, expressing its preparedness for a prolonged fight. Qatar continues mediating efforts, but the willingness to discuss a cease-fire is diminishing.

According to the Hamas-controlled Health Ministry, over 17,700 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, with approximately two-thirds of them being women and children. The conflict has also displaced around 90% of Gaza’s 2.3 million population.

The United States has supported Israel by vetoing a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for a cease-fire. It has also facilitated an emergency sale of over $100 million worth of tank ammunition to Israel.

Humanitarian aid is struggling to reach Gaza, leading to severe shortages of food, water, and basic goods for residents. Concerns exist that Palestinians may be forced out of Gaza altogether due to these conditions.

The U.N. General Assembly has scheduled an emergency meeting to vote on a draft resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza. While General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, they serve as a measure of global opinion.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken defended the emergency sale, citing Israel’s ongoing combat with Hamas and the need to ensure Israel’s defense. The tank ammunition sale is part of a larger aid package, which is still subject to congressional review.

The conflict has sparked concerns over rising antisemitism globally. Holocaust survivors held ceremonies, and U.S. President Joe Biden has denounced antisemitism. The ongoing war has heightened criticism and fears of antisemitism.

There are allegations that Israel is attempting to clear Gaza of its Palestinian population through its military offensive and evacuation orders. These claims have been met with denial by Israeli officials.

Pope Francis has called for continued prayers for populations suffering from war and urged efforts to remove the causes of conflicts. He emphasized the protection of civilians, hospitals, and places of worship, as well as the delivery of humanitarian aid.

A French warship in the Red Sea was targeted by drones coming from Yemen, which were subsequently shot down by the warship. The incident occurred about 110 kilometers off the Yemeni coast, but the source of the drones remains unknown.

Detainees released from detention by Israeli troops alleged mistreatment, including beatings and limited access to water and facilities. Israeli authorities have not provided an immediate comment on these allegations.