Israel-Gaza War: Tensions Escalate as Israel Imposes Gaza Siege and Hamas Issues Hostage Threats

Israel's defense minister has ordered a "complete siege" of Gaza, adding to the 16-year blockade already imposed by Israel and Egypt, as Hamas threatens to execute hostages in response to Israeli airstrikes. At least 150 Israelis have been taken hostage by Palestinian assailants since the incursion on Saturday, which has led to three days of border battles and retaliatory strikes. The violence has resulted in hundreds of casualties on both sides, with over 687 Palestinians killed and 800 Israelis dead. The conflict has also spread to Israel's northern border with Lebanon, raising concerns of a multi-front battle. Israel has requested additional munitions and interceptors from the US, and the Pentagon has moved warships and combat aircraft closer to Israel.