Israel Expands Gaza Offensive and Strikes Hezbollah Stronghold in Beirut

Evacuation orders displace over 140,000 in Rafah as ceasefire talks with Hamas stall over hostage terms.

The Israeli military has intensified operations in Gaza, issuing evacuation orders for over 140,000 people in Rafah and launching airstrikes and ground offensives targeting Hamas strongholds.
Israeli airstrikes hit a Hezbollah stronghold in Beirut for the second time since the November 2024 ceasefire, escalating tensions with the group and drawing condemnation from Lebanese leaders.
Ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas remain unresolved, with disputes over the number of hostages to be released; Hamas has proposed releasing five hostages for a 50-day truce, while Israel demands at least ten.
UNRWA Chief Philippe Lazzarini criticized the evacuation orders in Gaza, describing them as causing panic and treating civilians as 'pinballs' due to conflicting military directives.
Domestically, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu faces political challenges, including the arrests of two close associates over alleged financial ties to Qatar and controversy surrounding the nomination of Eli Sharvit as Shin Bet chief.