Citizens of Israel planned to assemble nationwide, commemorating the 700th day since Hamas' assault on 7 October

In the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, the situation in Gaza City remains tense. Experts warn that the war has pushed the Strip and its population close to famine, as basic necessities become increasingly scarce.

Talks on a temporary ceasefire recently broke down, with US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff walking away from the deal, blaming Hamas for the failure. Meanwhile, Israel's security cabinet has approved plans to take over Gaza City, considered a stronghold for Hamas.

The Israeli military offensive in Gaza City is continuing, with at least 60,000 reservists called up to support the operation. The conflict has resulted in the forcible taking of 251 Israelis into Gaza, 48 of whom are still believed to be held in the Strip. At least 20 of these hostages are thought to be alive.

The situation has sparked protests across Israel, with families of the hostages and thousands of demonstrators, including soldiers refusing to continue service, rallying against the planned expansion of the Israeli offensive in the Gaza Strip. These gatherings are scheduled to take place in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and the southern city of Kiryat Gat.

The families of the remaining hostages in the Gaza Strip have planned large protests across Israel for this Saturday. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum has called for Israel and Hamas to negotiate and abandon plans to take over Gaza City.

Hamas has proposed a deal to return the 48 hostages it still holds, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a lasting ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the opening of border crossings, and the start of the process of rebuilding the Strip. However, Netanyahu's office dismissed Hamas' offer as "spin". They stated that the war will continue until all hostages are returned, Hamas is disarmed, and Israel has full security control of the territory.

The UAE has warned that Israeli annexation of the West Bank would signal the end of regional integration. This adds another layer of complexity to the already volatile situation in the region.

The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry reported that 64,231 Palestinians have been killed since the start of the Israel-Hamas war. The conflict has taken a heavy toll on both sides, underscoring the urgent need for a peaceful resolution.

A notable Israeli expert has urged Hamas to be brought to justice for its sexual violence campaign. This call for accountability adds to the growing pressure on all parties involved to find a peaceful solution to the conflict.