As the Israel-Hamas conflict continues to escalate, the Gaza humanitarian crisis deepens, leaving thousands of residents in dire circumstances. The situation is further complicated by the international community’s response, with President Biden emphasizing the need for Israel to confront Hamas while cautioning against an Israeli occupation of Gaza.

The recent outbreak of violence began when Hamas militants launched barrages of rockets into Israel and engaged in a violent incursion into the Jewish state. In response, Israel initiated a series of airstrikes on the Palestinian territory. President Biden, in an interview with “60 Minutes,” acknowledged the need for Israel to respond to these provocations, stating that “Israel has to go after Hamas.” However, he also voiced concerns that an Israeli occupation of Gaza would be a significant mistake.

The United Nations reports that nearly a million Gaza residents have been displaced since the conflict’s onset. Many have heeded Israel’s warnings to evacuate to the southern part of the territory as essential resources such as food, water, and fuel become increasingly scarce. Unfortunately, the Rafah border crossing into Egypt, the only exit from Gaza, remains closed, leaving residents trapped and cut off from the outside world.

Reports of a temporary ceasefire for humanitarian aid access and foreigner evacuations at the Rafah crossing have been denied by both Israel and Hamas. This denial further complicates the situation for those trapped in Gaza.

The casualties on both sides of the conflict continue to rise. Israel’s military reports that Hamas attacks and ongoing rocket fire from Gaza have led to the deaths of over 1,300 people, including at least 276 Israeli troops, with 3,200 others injured. In Gaza, the Health Ministry has reported that Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 2,750 people and wounded approximately 9,700 others. Tragically, among the casualties are 30 U.S. citizens, with 13 Americans still unaccounted for.

Additionally, the Israeli military confirmed that 155 people were taken captive by Hamas, and it is believed that some of them are American citizens.

As the conflict intensifies, international efforts to bring about a ceasefire and address the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza are crucial. The situation remains highly complex, and the world is watching closely as the conflict’s toll on civilians continues to rise.