A city in the Gaza Strip, filled with refugees, was heavily bombarded, resulting in the destruction of a large mosque and numerous casualties on Thursday. Israel reiterated its plan to send ground forces into the area if Hamas does not release hostages before the start of Ramadan.
The Gazan health authorities reported nearly 100 deaths from Israeli strikes in the past day, bringing the total death toll after almost 20 weeks of war to nearly 30,000.
Israel’s focus on invading the area coincided with diplomatic efforts to prevent it, especially with Ramadan approaching on March 10.
President Biden’s Middle East coordinator, Brett McGurk, met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the possibility of a hostage deal. Negotiations in Cairo failed recently, but there is hope for progress on a new deal.
Israel’s defense minister, Yoav Gallant, announced plans to expand the authority of hostage negotiators as efforts continue to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Hamas praised a shooting in the Israeli-occupied West Bank that resulted in casualties. Violence has escalated in the West Bank since the conflict in Gaza began, posing challenges to stability and governance in the region.
The Israeli military confirmed ongoing fighting with Hamas across the Gaza Strip, as well as naval operations targeting militant groups. In Rafah, fears rose among residents following intense bombardment.
Displaced families from Rafah sought shelter in central Gaza amid the threat of a ground invasion. Heavy bombardment continued in the region, prompting more people to flee to seek safety.
Despite some returning to their homes, many sought refuge in other cities in central Gaza, only to face continued violence. The situation remains tense as diplomatic efforts persist to reach a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages.
Aaron Boxerman, Adam Sella Nader Ibrahim and Julian E. Barnes contributed reporting.
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