U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are set to meet on Monday as Israel intensifies its military operations in Gaza City. The talks come amid a deepening hostage crisis, with Hamas' military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, reporting it lost contact with two hostages during Israeli airstrikes and ground advances.
Hamas Calls for Ceasefire
On Sunday, the Al-Qassam Brigades urged Israel to withdraw troops and halt air strikes for 24 hours to facilitate locating the hostages. Israel has not directly responded but ordered evacuations in parts of Gaza City, signaling plans to expand its offensive. The military stated it aims to dismantle Hamas infrastructure, flattening neighborhoods and displacing thousands of Palestinians.
Humanitarian Toll Mounts
Gaza's Health Ministry reported at least 77 fatalities in the past 24 hours, with local authorities unable to respond to rescue calls due to ongoing strikes. The Civil Emergency Service accused Israel of blocking 73 aid requests for injured civilians. Meanwhile, Egypt sent a 3,000-tonne humanitarian convoy to Gaza via the Red Crescent, as famine-related deaths climbed to 422 since the conflict began.
Regional Implications
The meeting between Trump and Netanyahu highlights the geopolitical stakes of the conflict, which has drawn global concern over civilian casualties and regional stability. Analysts warn the crisis could further strain Middle East relations amid calls for de-escalation.
