The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have announced ongoing operations against Hamas, involving ground troops and airstrikes targeting terrorist activities and infrastructure both above and below ground. These operations are focused on the Bureij Refugee Camp and areas east of Deir al-Balar in the central Gaza Strip.
Since the conflict began on October 7, the toll has been devastating: at least 36,586 people have been killed and 83,074 wounded in Gaza, while Israel has reported 1,139 deaths, with dozens still held captive in Gaza.
Efforts to mediate a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages are being led by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, with meetings taking place in Doha and Cairo. U.S. President Joe Biden has outlined a proposal he refers to as an Israeli initiative. However, Hamas Chief Political Leader Ismail Haniyeh insists that any agreement must include a clear commitment from Israel to a permanent ceasefire and a complete withdrawal from Gaza.
In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear that Israel will not agree to a ceasefire, stating that the war will not end until Hamas is fully eliminated. This fundamental disagreement continues to fuel the conflict, making a resolution challenging to achieve.