Israeli forces killed two Palestinians in southern Gaza, further intensifying the humanitarian crisis as aid remains restricted and ceasefire agreements falter. The ongoing blockade has drawn condemnation from multiple countries, including Canada, Germany, Spain, and Turkiye, over the worsening conditions in the besieged enclave.

A US State Department spokesperson confirmed that Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is set to return to the Middle East in an attempt to either extend the ceasefire’s first phase or move toward a second phase. However, negotiations remain uncertain as tensions persist.

The humanitarian toll continues to rise, with Gaza’s Health Ministry reporting 48,388 Palestinian casualties and 111,803 wounded since the war began. The Government Media Office estimates the total death toll to be at least 61,709, as thousands remain buried under rubble.

In Israel, at least 1,139 people were killed in the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, with over 200 individuals taken hostage. The escalating violence has raised international concerns, with efforts ongoing to broker a resolution.