Israel orders evacuation of former Gaza safe area; U.N. aid convoy fired on

Amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict, Israeli troops fired on a UN aid convoy and ordered civilians to evacuate a safe zone. Despite mounting pressure from the US to protect civilians and ease humanitarian conditions, Israel has intensified its military operations in Gaza. The conflict has resulted in over 39,000 Palestinian fatalities, with women and children constituting the majority of the victims. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's tense relationship with President Biden has further deteriorated as Israel has defied US entreaties for increased humanitarian aid and civilian protection. The Biden administration has withheld the supply of certain weapons to Israel due to their use in densely populated areas. Israeli military officials claim the intense phase of the war is nearing its end, but Palestinian and foreign medics report a surge in mass-casualty attacks by Israeli forces. These attacks have overwhelmed hospitals already struggling with treating previous injuries. Analysts speculate that Israel's shift in strategy is an attempt to pressure Hamas in diplomatic negotiations aimed at securing a ceasefire and hostage release. The Biden administration is urging Netanyahu to accept a deal, but he remains adamant about destroying Hamas, a goal deemed unachievable by his generals. Netanyahu's critics accuse him of prolonging the war for political gain, which he denies. Israel has recently made last-minute demands that threaten to hinder the Cairo peace talks. Two more Israeli hostages have been reported killed in Gaza, prompting outrage from their families and demands for a swift resolution to the conflict. The ongoing hostage situation has become a focal point in the diplomatic efforts to end the violence.