Israeli Forces Engage in Intense Battle for Control of Gaza City

Israeli forces are engaged in a ground operation inside Gaza City, putting pressure on Hamas militants. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that Israeli troops are tightening the noose around Gaza City, aiming to dismantle Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is open to short pauses in the fighting to allow for the flow of humanitarian aid, but insists on the release of Israeli hostages before agreeing to a general ceasefire. The families of hostages kidnapped by Hamas visited Washington, D.C. to plead for help in securing their loved ones' release. The Department of Education warned colleges and universities to curb discrimination, including antisemitism and Islamophobia, or risk losing federal funds.