The Israel-Gaza conflict has intensified with the Israeli military urging Palestinian civilians to evacuate Gaza City amidst an escalated military offensive resulting in numerous casualties, including 31 people killed in a school-turned-shelter airstrike. While the Biden administration plans to resume shipping 500lb bombs to Israel, concerns over their use in densely populated Gaza have led to the withholding of 2,000lb bombs.
Despite this, the US remains 'cautiously optimistic' about ceasefire negotiations, aiming to bridge the gaps between the conflicting sides. The ongoing war has seen Hezbollah pledging to halt its offensive pending a ceasefire, as Israel continues its airstrikes causing further casualties.
The United Nations has stressed the need to protect civilians in Gaza City following the evacuation order. The shekel has surged against major currencies on reports of a potential ceasefire, with the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange also experiencing gains.
The Israeli army has declared the completion of operations in a Gaza City neighborhood, leading to significant destruction and prompting further civilian displacement.
