Netanyahu rejects cease-fire calls as Israeli military rescues hostage and intensifies fighting in Gaza

Israeli ground forces continue to advance in Gaza, rejecting calls for a cease-fire as airstrikes target hospitals and civilian areas. The military claims to have killed one of the leaders of the Oct. 7 Hamas massacre, while also rescuing a soldier held captive by Hamas militants. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refuses to resign and dismisses calls for a cease-fire, stating that it would be surrendering to Hamas. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, with food shortages and a growing number of civilian casualties. The death toll among Palestinians has surpassed 8,300, mostly women and children, while over 1,400 people have died on the Israeli side. Hospitals in Gaza are under threat, and conditions for civilians are deteriorating. The fighting raises concerns of regional escalation, with clashes between Israel and Hezbollah along the northern border and increased tensions in the West Bank.