Israel Escalates Military Offensive in Gaza Strip

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refuses to resign and rejects a cease-fire, vowing to defeat Hamas. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz calls for Hamas to be held accountable for the death of a German-Israeli citizen. Israel announces the release of a female soldier captured by Hamas. The UN warns of a potential wider escalation of the conflict in Syria. Five Palestinians are killed in clashes with Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank. Hamas releases a video showing three hostages captured during their attack inside Israel. US and coalition forces are attacked 23 times in Iraq and Syria. The World Bank warns that the Israel-Hamas conflict could push oil prices into "uncharted waters." Lebanon dismantles 21 rocket launchers near the border with Israel. The Gaza Health Ministry reports 304 people killed in the past day, with the death toll reaching 8,306. Overnight airstrikes damage a hospital south of Gaza City. The Vatican emphasizes the need for a two-state solution for lasting peace. The UN Security Council holds an emergency meeting on the Gaza situation.