"Israel-Hamas War: Israeli Forces Close in on Gaza City, UN Shelters Hit, Calls for Humanitarian Pause Ignored"

As the Israel-Hamas conflict enters its 28th day, the Israeli army spokesperson denies the possibility of a ceasefire and announces the completion of the encirclement of Gaza. International pressure for a ceasefire is mounting, while Hezbollah Chief Hassan Nasrallah is set to make his first public address since the war began. The US House of Representatives passes a $14.3bn aid plan for Israel, but the Democrat-controlled Senate refuses to bring it up for a vote. The human impact of the conflict continues to rise, with over 9,000 deaths in Gaza and four Israeli soldiers killed. Diplomatic efforts are underway, with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken traveling to Israel and Jordan, and Chilean President Gabriel Boric raising concerns about the war with US President Joe Biden. Clashes also escalate in the occupied West Bank, resulting in casualties.