Overview

• Israeli forces have commenced a major ground offensive in Rafah, targeting Hamas strongholds to secure the release of remaining hostages.
• Defense Minister Israel Katz has threatened to annex parts of Gaza and establish buffer zones if Hamas does not comply with hostage release demands.
• The Israeli government has intensified air, ground, and naval operations across Gaza, focusing on dismantling Hamas infrastructure.
• Ron Prosor, Israel's ambassador to Germany, emphasized that military pressure is the only effective means to compel Hamas to release hostages.
• The humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, with significant casualties reported, as discussions on a U.S.-backed resettlement plan for Gaza residents gain attention.