Escalating Violence: Israeli Troops Clear Houses as Strikes Hit Gaza Strip and Hezbollah Bombards Israeli Positions

Israeli troops continue to clear houses as strikes hit the Gaza Strip, with at least 230 people killed and 1,700 injured, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. Hamas has reportedly taken an unknown number of Israeli civilians, soldiers, and commanders captive, expressing a desire to exchange them for imprisoned militants. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel is at war and will win, while President Biden reaffirmed his support for Israel's security. Israel has ordered residents in areas around Gaza to remain indoors after militants infiltrated Israeli territory and launched over 3,000 rockets. The conflict stems from the Israeli occupation of the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem since 1967, with Hamas and Israel engaging in four wars since 2007.