Israeli Army Suffers Heavy Losses in Gaza Battle with Hamas

Nine Israeli soldiers were killed in fighting deep inside the Gaza Strip, bringing the day's death toll among troops to 11. Israeli forces continued to attack targets overnight, focusing on a Hamas stronghold in Jabaliya. The casualties highlight the dangers faced by soldiers as they engage in urban combat in Gaza's crowded streets. The Hamas-run health ministry claims over 8,500 people have been killed in the enclave, but this figure cannot be independently verified. Israel has been vague about its operations in Gaza, but residents and terror group spokesmen say troops appear to be trying to take control of main roads. Arab nations, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan, have strongly condemned Israeli airstrikes, while Turkey's President Erdogan accused Israel of crimes against humanity.