The Palestinian enclave of Gaza is a major global hotspot with potential for extreme violence. Nearly isolated from the world since Hamas took control of it in 2007, it has been a poverty -ridden corner of the world. It is a regular launching pad for rocket attacks against southern Israel and a training ground for Islamist terrorists. Israel has carried out three major operations in the territory since relinquishing it unilaterally in 2005.
UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini described an "implosion of civil order" where Gazans who have not eaten for days looted aid distribution centers and stopped trucks on roads.
IDF soldiers of the Jerusalem Brigade were able to thwart a Hamas ambush on their position in Gaza and destroyed tunnel shafts.
The statement did not make clear whether Russia sought the release of all hostages seized by Hamas or just the release of any Russian nationals among them.
Among the possible measures up for discussion at the meeting are a crackdown on Hamas’s finances and travel bans for Israeli settlers responsible for violence in the West Bank.
A flight from the Israeli airline Arkia safely lands in Ben-Gurion Airport as the Iron Dome intercepts rockets fired by Hamas from Gaza.
Two days after the United States vetoed a proposed United Nations demand for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, Blinken said Israel needs to put "a premium" on protecting Gaza civilians
The impact of photos showing humiliated terrorists on Israel's war objectives is debated, as concerns arise over potential harm and embarrassing documents held by Hamas.
The 282nd Artillery Division operated in the Shejaia neighborhood of Gaza City, in cooperation with the 188th Brigade, the IDF said.
The expansion of fighting and IDF's entrance into southern Gaza worsened the humanitarian crisis, triggering food shortages and residents' growing dissatisfaction with Hamas leadership.
Sahar Baruch stayed behind in a burning shelter to try and save his brother before being kidnapped, according to family members.