Israeli Strikes in Gaza Escalate as Hostage Video Released and Journalist Killed
Over 730 Palestinians have died since March 18 as humanitarian conditions worsen, while Hamas shares proof-of-life video of two Israeli hostages and international criticism mounts over civilian and journalist casualties.
- Israeli military operations in Gaza have resulted in over 730 Palestinian deaths since March 18, including 57 in the last 24 hours, according to Gaza health officials.
- Hamas released a video of two Israeli hostages, Elkana Bohbot and Yossef-Haïm Ohana, captured during the October 7, 2023, attack, marking the first proof-of-life video since the ceasefire collapse.
- Hossam Shabat, a journalist for Al Jazeera, was killed in an Israeli drone strike in Beit Lahia, with his vehicle clearly marked as press; Israel accused him of Hamas ties, which he and Al Jazeera denied.
- The humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens as Israeli strikes damage critical infrastructure, trap civilians, and reportedly target facilities such as Red Cross and UN buildings.
- Regional tensions escalate with Israeli airstrikes extending to Syria and Lebanon, prompting international calls for restraint and concerns about broader instability.