Israel-Hamas conflict: Gaza death toll reaches alarming levels as UN calls for immediate action

The death toll in Gaza has reached nearly 10,000 people, mostly women and children, in the four weeks since the conflict between Israel and Hamas began. Israeli forces have intensified their response, including a ground invasion and bombardment, with the aim of eliminating Hamas. The IDF has split Gaza in half, cutting off the north from the south, and has urged civilians to flee. However, only a small number have been able to escape due to ongoing violence and impassable roads. The United Nations estimates that out of approximately 300,000 people trapped in northern Gaza, only 2,000 were able to move south. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is wrapping up his Middle East tour, while CIA Director William Burns is reportedly visiting Israel.