Seven months into the conflict triggered by Hamas's October 7 attack, Israeli forces are engaged in fierce battles with Palestinian militants in Gaza, focusing on Rafah near the Egyptian border and new flashpoints in northern and central areas.
An incident of friendly fire in Jabalia resulted in the deaths of five Israeli soldiers and injuries to seven others.
Despite heavy fighting and Israeli airstrikes across Gaza, Prime Minister Netanyahu has ordered an offensive in Rafah, claiming mass evacuations have prevented a humanitarian catastrophe.
He emphasised that planning for Gaza's future governance is premature until Hamas is defeated.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant countered by calling for Palestinian entities, supported by international actors, to govern Gaza post-conflict.
Meanwhile, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh declared that Hamas and other Palestinian factions would determine Gaza's governance, reiterating demands for a permanent ceasefire and the lifting of the siege.
The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with 278 Israeli troops and at least 35,233 Palestinians killed, and has led to severe shortages of essential supplies in Gaza.
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