In Israel, a group of former soldiers, including many from special units, has publicly urged that the priority should be the release of hostages rather than the continuation of military operations.

Israeli forces are expanding a 'security zone' in northern Gaza, with officials suggesting that a permanent occupation of parts of the territory may be necessary to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas was ignited by a mass attack on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 Israeli fatalities and the abduction of 251 hostages.

During a recent visit to the Gaza Strip, Netanyahu highlighted military successes and reiterated threats against Hamas, insisting on the need for hostages to be released.

An anonymous former diplomat expressed that while Israel has the right to defend itself, the extent of its military actions is increasingly viewed as unjustifiable by the international community.

As the conflict continues, Israeli military operations against Hamas in Gaza have intensified, with the situation deteriorating significantly.

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced France's intention to recognize the Palestinian state, a move that has sparked tensions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Macron emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian aid to reach civilians in Gaza and called for a ceasefire to facilitate the release of hostages held by Hamas.

In response, Netanyahu's administration criticized Macron's comments, labeling them as a rejection of international legitimacy and indicative of a preference for military solutions over political dialogue.

Currently, it is believed that 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with 24 of them alive, raising concerns among families and the public.

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas reaffirmed the Palestinian people's right to remain on their land, emphasizing their determination not to leave amidst the ongoing conflict.

The United Nations has warned that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is at its worst in 18 months, with severe shortages of essential supplies and no aid deliveries for weeks.