"Israel-Hamas Conflict: Real-time Updates and Breaking News from Gaza"

Houthi rebels shot down a U.S. drone off the coast of Yemen, escalating tensions between the United States and Iran-backed groups in the region. Meanwhile, discussions are underway for Hamas to release a small number of hostages, including Americans, in exchange for a brief pause in Israel's military campaign in Gaza. The White House condemned Representative Rashida Tlaib for embracing a phrase used by some pro-Palestinian groups that is widely regarded as a rallying cry for the eradication of Israel. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that Gaza and the West Bank should be unified under Palestinian Authority control after the war ends, but obstacles such as the power struggle between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority remain. The White House has not supported a cease-fire at this time, stating that it would "legitimize" Hamas. Additionally, Brazil has arrested two individuals tied to an Iranian-backed militia for plotting terrorist attacks against Jews in the country, and thousands of people are making a risky journey from northern Gaza to the south amid intensified Israeli airstrikes.