Israeli Troops Escalate Ground Offensive in Gaza City as IDF Toll Rises
Israeli troops, backed by air power and naval support, have entered Gaza City as part of a ground offensive against Hamas. The military's chief of staff called it a significant stage in the war, but conquering the city will be challenging due to its dense urban environment and network of tunnels. The death toll among IDF troops has risen to 19, and Hamas continues to fire rockets at Israel. The air force and navy have also conducted strikes on Hamas targets. The advance into Gaza City coincides with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Israel, and there is growing pressure for a humanitarian pause in the fighting. Israel may soon allow fuel transfers to hospitals in Gaza.