Street-to-street combat was occurring in three Hamas strongholds in the Gaza Strip on Monday, according to Israel. The Israeli military reported that the number of soldiers killed in the ground invasion of Gaza had surpassed 100, giving an indication of the intense urban warfare. At the same time, Israeli leaders warned of an increasing threat coming from Hezbollah attacks in northern Israel from Lebanon, which they stated could prompt a powerful response. Additional battles are also occurring with Iran-backed militias including the Houthis, who threatened to step up attacks on ships bound for Israel.
Meanwhile, the United Nations and aid agencies warned of the deteriorating situation in the shrinking pockets of Gaza where civilians have taken refuge from Israeli bombardments, causing chaos and the risk of epidemics. The chief of staff of Israel’s military had stated that action would be necessary, implying a stronger response from Israel.
Despite calls for a cease-fire, Israel has resisted ramping down its military campaign. Israeli officials have expressed that they are engaged in intense battles with Hamas in areas the group still has “strongholds”. The Biden administration has publicly backed the Israeli government and stated that it has not set a deadline for Israel to end the war.
The Israeli military has yet to find Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, who they believe is hiding in southern Gaza. They are committed to capturing or killing him, as well as other top Hamas leaders. This is all according to reports that included contributions from Rami Nazzal, Ephrat Livni, Euan Ward, Hwaida Saad, Aurelien Breeden, Gaia Pianigiani, Ben Hubbard, Vivian Nereim, and Aaron Boxerman.