Heavy airstrike in Rafah, Gaza Strip; Israeli military announces rescue of two hostages. Local health authorities say 67 people have died so far, and there are concerns that the number of casualties among residents will increase further in the future.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has ordered the military to formulate a plan that both evacuates residents and annihilates Hamas forces. However, the United States, an ally of Israel, and Egypt, which is acting as a mediator in negotiations for the release of the hostages, have expressed concerns.