The Gaza Health Ministry reported that the death toll in the Israel-Hamas conflict has risen to 66,005, with 168,162 wounded since Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack, a day before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to meet U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss halting Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza City.
Amid the escalating violence, Israeli security forces shot dead an alleged attacker in a car-ramming incident near Nablus, leaving one man seriously injured. Hamas praised the attack. Violence has surged across the Israeli-occupied West Bank, including Gaza and East Jerusalem, territories claimed by Palestinians for a future state.
International pressure on Netanyahu to end the war has intensified. Several Western allies and a growing number of countries have recognized a Palestinian state. The European Union is considering sanctions, while sports and cultural boycotts against Israel are gaining momentum.
Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, Netanyahu declared Israel must “finish the job” against Hamas, even as the military continues its offensive in Gaza City.
Hostages and Ceasefire Talks
Around 48 hostages remain in Gaza, with Israel estimating 20 are still alive, following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack that triggered the conflict.
U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed a 21-point ceasefire plan, including:
- Immediate ceasefire
- Release of all hostages within 48 hours
- Gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza
Trump has discussed the plan with Arab leaders in New York. Hamas has expressed willingness to “study any proposals positively and responsibly,” while previously stating it could release all hostages in exchange for an end to hostilities and full Israeli withdrawal.
U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee will visit Cairo to engage Egyptian officials on the ceasefire and regional tensions. Relations between Israel and Egypt, the first Arab country to establish ties with Israel, have deteriorated due to Israel’s recent strike targeting Hamas leadership in Doha and concerns over displaced Palestinians entering Egypt.
Humanitarian Crisis
Local hospitals in central Gaza reported at least 10 deaths after strikes hit homes in Nuseirat refugee camp. Gaza’s Health Ministry noted 79 deaths in the past 24 hours, with women and children comprising roughly half the fatalities.
Residents report continuous explosions, likely from demolitions using explosive-laden vehicles and robots. The Israeli military targeted 140 Hamas military sites in the past 24 hours, including militants, observation posts, and infrastructure.
The offensive has devastated vast areas of Gaza, displaced around 90% of the population, and triggered a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with Gaza City facing famine conditions.
