Airstrikes hit Gaza City and Israeli ground forces fought militants near the area’s largest hospital, where thousands of people are trapped with dwindling supplies and no electricity. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected international calls for a cease-fire without the release of hostages taken by Hamas. Israel’s goal is to end Hamas’ rule in Gaza and destroy its military capabilities. Health facilities are out of service as airstrikes have damaged surrounding buildings and hospitals, cutting off people from emergency care. Israel’s power company said workers repairing lines in previous attacks were wounded, with video footage showing two vehicles on fire. The U.S. wants temporary pauses for humanitarian aid distribution, but Israel has only agreed to brief daily periods for civilians to flee combat areas. Evacuation windows are scarce, and over two-thirds of Gaza’s population has been displaced. More than 11,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began, but Israel has faced backlash for civilian casualties as well. At least 1,200 people have been killed on the Israeli side, mostly civilians killed in the initial Hamas attack. Approximately 250,000 Israelis have been forced to evacuate. Hoff, Middle-of-the-road App writers Amy Teibel in Jerusalem and Abby Sewell in Beirut contribute to the report. Access full AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war.
Intense Clashes Erupt near Main Gaza Hospital amid Netanyahu’s Refusal to Consider Cease-Fire
