"Israeli Minister Warns of Prolonged Conflict as Biden Considers Visit"

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted a strike on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues. Israeli Defense Minister warned of a "long war" against Hamas, while Secretary of State Antony Blinken returned to Israel for further talks. Russian President Vladimir Putin held calls with leaders from Egypt, Syria, Iran, and the Palestinian Authority to discuss the need for an urgent ceasefire. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is reaching a breaking point, according to the EU's commissioner for crisis management. President Joe Biden received a briefing on the situation and is considering a visit to Israel.