In a bid to gain full control of northern Gaza from Hamas, Israel escalated its military operations while U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the ongoing 11-week war. The UN Security Council called for increased aid to the Palestinian enclave, emphasizing the growing humanitarian crisis.

Reports from Jabalia described persistent aerial bombardment and tank shelling, prompting discussions between Biden and Netanyahu on Israel's military objectives, protection of civilians, and the release of hostages. Netanyahu affirmed Israel's commitment to pursuing the war until all objectives were met.

Despite concerns over casualties and a humanitarian crisis, the U.S. maintained support, expecting Israel to transition to lower-intensity operations targeting Hamas leadership. The UN Security Council refrained from demanding an immediate ceasefire, with Washington abstaining from the resolution.

The Palestinian death toll reached 20,258, with Gaza's 2.3 million residents mostly displaced. Israel reported 154 soldiers killed and operational control over northern Gaza, with plans to expand the offensive.

As the conflict continued, Hamas claimed to destroy Israeli tanks, while Israel countered with decoy shots and accused Hamas of using civilians as shields. The conflict's repercussions extended to Yemen, where Houthi forces targeted shipping in the Red Sea in response to Israel's actions. The U.S. intercepted drones, and an Iranian drone struck a tanker in the Indian Ocean.

Amidst the unrest, an Iranian commander hinted at closing the Mediterranean Sea if perceived "crimes" in Gaza persisted. The situation remains complex and volatile, with international efforts focused on mitigating the humanitarian fallout.