Gaza City has been designated a dangerous combat zone by Israel, which has begun a planned offensive that is provoking widespread international criticism. The military has halted humanitarian pauses that previously permitted aid to flow into the city, where many are enduring severe shortages.
As part of its recent operations, Israel announced the recovery of one hostage's body, identified as Ilan Weiss, killed during an initial Hamas assault. Rubi Chen, a father of a missing son, expressed mixed feelings about the recovery, underscoring the pain of uncertainty for families of the remaining hostages.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the recovery of remains and stated that the campaign to bring all hostages home remains a top priority for the government. Current estimates suggest that approximately 50 hostages, out of 251 taken in the initial attack, are still in Gaza, with about 20 believed to be alive.
The Israeli military aims to intensify its operations, maintaining that it will not relent until all hostages are recovered and Hamas is dismantled, both militarily and politically. Meanwhile, the U.N. has raised alarms about the expected humanitarian impact of the intensified attacks, projecting dire conditions for the already beleaguered population of Gaza City.
A local spokesman noted that around 440 people are sheltering in Gaza's only Catholic church, choosing to stay despite the escalating violence. The clergy present continue to provide support, but concerns remain high as the military situation evolves.
