"Israel-Hamas War: Gaza Hostage Crisis Escalates as IDF Reports Nearly 200 Captives"

The Israeli military has stated that nearly 200 hostages are being held by Hamas in Gaza, a higher number than previously estimated. The Palestinian authorities have also reported a severe shortage of drinking water in Gaza due to the ongoing Israeli bombardment. The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate has reported that 11 journalists have been killed in Israeli airstrikes since the conflict began. The World Health Organization has prepared 26 tons of aid supplies to be delivered to Gaza once the border with Rafah opens. Meanwhile, there are reports that Israel is still in the preparatory phase for a ground offensive in Gaza. Both Israel and Hamas have denied reports of a cease-fire in southern Gaza. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on Hamas to release the hostages and for Israel to allow humanitarian aid to be distributed in Gaza. US President Joe Biden has stated that an Israeli occupation of Gaza would be a "big mistake."