Israel-Hamas Battle Escalates Near Gaza Hospital, Trapping Civilians

Israeli ground forces are engaged in battles with Hamas near Gaza City's largest hospital, Al-Shifa Hospital, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claims progress in the possible release of the nearly 240 hostages held by Hamas. The fighting has left the hospital without fuel, resulting in the deaths of premature babies and other patients. The World Health Organization describes the situation as "dire and perilous." Israel has offered to provide fuel to the hospital, but it was refused. The IDF continues its ground incursion, while a possible deal for the release of the hostages is being discussed. The EU calls for immediate pauses in hostilities to spare hospitals from further damage and allow civilians to flee safely.