Gaza Conflict

Gaza Conflict: US Pushes for Ceasefire Amidst Rising Death Toll

Situation Overview

* The US is intensifying efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in the ongoing Gaza conflict. * The death toll in Gaza has reportedly exceeded 40,000, according to health officials in the territory. * Israel's military operation continues, including an airstrike on Saturday morning that killed 15 people in the al-Zawaida area.

Continued Israeli Offensive

* Israel has continued its bulldozing of Gaza, expanding an area of devastation. * Israel initiated its military assault on October 7 in response to a Hamas-led attack that reportedly killed approximately 1,200 people.

International Response

* The US, along with other international actors, is urging both sides to halt the violence and pursue a peaceful resolution. * The United Nations has expressed deep concern about the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Sources

* [Associated Press](https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-strip-hamas-middle-east-jerusalem-2801ede7e75a4667b608c3bb3ca62415) * [Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israel-bulldozes-more-gaza-its-invasion-continues-advance-2024-08-14/) * [United Nations](https://www.un.org/press/en/2024/sc15431.doc.htm)