Israel-Hamas War Intensifies in Gaza's Major Cities

Israel and Hamas are engaged in fierce battles in Gaza's biggest cities, resulting in hundreds of deaths and thousands of Palestinian civilians seeking shelter. The United Nations warns of a humanitarian catastrophe and calls for a cease-fire, but the United States is likely to block any U.N. effort. The fighting has displaced a large portion of Gaza's population, disrupted humanitarian operations, and raised concerns about the worsening situation for civilians. Israeli forces are reportedly closing in on Hamas's Gaza chief, and Israel accuses Hamas of using civilians as human shields.