Israel Expands Ground Operation in Gaza Amid Rising Civilian Death Toll

Netanyahu remains steadfast in goal to destroy Hamas, as Biden refrains from pressing for ceasefire and anti-government protests resume in Israel.

Israel's military has expanded its ground operation in the Gaza Strip, focusing on the southern city of Khan Younis, a stronghold of Hamas, and the north of Gaza. The operation has resulted in the deaths of more than a dozen Israeli soldiers over the weekend.
Despite international pressure and a rising Palestinian death toll, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not backed down from his goal of destroying Hamas. The Israeli government is planning for a new phase of the fighting but has not yet provided specifics.
Israel's military campaign has resulted in over 20,000 deaths in Gaza, mostly civilians, according to the Hamas government. The United Nations estimates that nearly 80% of Gaza's 2.4 million population has been displaced by the fighting.
US President Joe Biden spoke with Netanyahu, discussing the 'objectives and phasing' of the Israel-Hamas war. Biden did not press for a ceasefire during the call. The United Nations Security Council has called for humanitarian pauses and increased aid to Gaza.
Anti-government protests have resumed in Israel, with thousands rallying in Tel Aviv. The protesters are criticizing the government's handling of the war and its policies that they believe allowed Hamas to gain strength.