Escalation in Gaza: Israeli Forces Advance Amid Rising Casualties

Israeli forces intensified their operations in southern Gaza, leading to heavy casualties and displacement. Over 66 Palestinians were killed in the past 24 hours as Israeli tanks pushed deeper into the region. The conflict has intensified tensions with regional actors, escalating the potential for broader hostilities.

Israeli forces escalated their offensive in southern Gaza on Sunday, pushing tanks deeper into the enclave amid fierce battles with Hamas militants. Gaza health officials reported that Israeli military strikes killed 66 Palestinians across the area within the past 24 hours.

Tanks advanced into the towns of Al-Karara, Al-Zanna, and Bani Suhaila in eastern Khan Younis, resulting in at least nine fatalities. Intense fighting in eastern Khan Younis prompted thousands of families to seek refuge in overcrowded areas to the west and north.

Later on Sunday, air strikes in Khan Younis claimed 15 more lives, including five in a humanitarian-designated tent area. The Israeli military stated it was responding to renewed rocket attacks from Hamas, targeting military infrastructure and militants in the process.

In Rafah, near Egypt, Israeli tanks moved further into the city, while shelling occurred in central Gaza areas, including several refugee camps. Meanwhile, CIA Director William Burns met with Israeli and Egyptian officials in Rome to discuss a potential ceasefire and the release of Hamas-held hostages.

As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed his stance on defeating Hamas before ending the conflict, Israel also threatened stern action against Hezbollah following a deadly rocket attack attributed to the Iran-backed militant group.

Gaza health authorities reported over 39,000 Palestinian deaths since the offensive began, with Israel estimating around one-third were fighters. The conflict originated from a Hamas-led assault on southern Israel in October that resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and 250 hostages.

(With inputs from agencies.)