Live updates | Palestinian officials say death toll rises from expanded Israel military operation

The current situation in Gaza is marked by intensified Israeli military operations, including ground incursions, airstrikes, and naval bombardment. The conflict has escalated significantly, leading to a dire humanitarian crisis in the region. Gaza has experienced a communication blackout, making it challenging for ambulances and aid agencies to reach those in need. The conflict has resulted in a high number of casualties, with both civilians and militants affected.

According to the Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza, the death toll in the region has surpassed 7,700 people since the conflict began. This figure includes a significant number of women and children. The situation is further exacerbated by the communication blackout, making it difficult to provide timely medical assistance and retrieve the injured. The conflict has also resulted in a large number of displaced people living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions.

The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalation of the conflict in Gaza. The United Nations has called for a humanitarian cease-fire to allow for the delivery of aid and medical supplies to the affected population. The World Health Organization (WHO) has appealed for an immediate end to the fighting and expressed grave concerns about the situation in Gaza, where hospitals are overwhelmed, and ambulances cannot reach the wounded.

Israel has expanded its military operations in Gaza, including ground incursions, airstrikes, and naval attacks. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has announced the expansion of the ground operation, with infantry and armored vehicles involved. The military has also targeted tunnels and underground bunkers used by Hamas militants. Additionally, Israel reported striking Hezbollah military infrastructure in Lebanon in response to missile launches from Lebanese territory.

Humanitarian organizations, including the United Nations, World Health Organization, and World Food Program, are facing significant challenges in providing assistance in Gaza due to the communication blackout and intense military operations. They have called for a humanitarian cease-fire to ensure the safety of aid workers and the delivery of essential supplies to the affected population. UNWRA has reported the loss of staff members in Gaza due to Israeli airstrikes, further highlighting the dangers faced by humanitarian workers.

Families of hostages held in Gaza have expressed immense concern for their loved ones amid the escalation of the conflict. They have called for meetings with Israeli officials, including Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to seek information about the safety of the hostages. The families fear that the military’s targeting of tunnel infrastructure may put their loved ones at risk.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached a critical point, with reports of widespread suffering among the civilian population. The communication blackout has made it difficult to provide medical assistance, and many are trapped under the rubble of bombed buildings. Disease is spreading rapidly due to overcrowded shelters and unsanitary conditions. Humanitarian organizations have emphasized the urgent need for a cease-fire to address the growing crisis.