Israeli Public Divided on Gaza Ground Invasion, Poll Shows

A new poll reveals that nearly half of Israelis want their government to delay a ground invasion of Gaza, putting pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Previously, two-thirds of Israelis favored an extensive invasion, but now only 29% want an immediate ground offensive, while 49% prefer to wait. The shift in opinion is attributed to Hamas's release of four hostages and fears of the Gaza crisis escalating into a wider conflict after US airstrikes on Iran-linked militant bases in Syria. Israel has been conducting a relentless bombing campaign in Gaza, resulting in civilian deaths, while Hamas continues to launch rocket attacks on Israel. The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees warns that it may have to halt operations in Gaza if fuel is not received, as the region faces a desperate need for shelter, water, food, and medical services.