Palestinian officials report that Israeli strikes have resulted in the deaths of at least 29 individuals, including four medical staff, near one of the last functioning hospitals in northern Gaza. Lebanon has decided to close all land border crossings with Syria except for one main route connecting Beirut and Damascus, while Jordan has also shut down a border crossing due to security concerns on the Syrian side.
Meanwhile, Syrian insurgents have made advances in central towns like Rastan and Talbiseh, moving closer to Homs, Syria's third-largest city. In another development, Israel's conflict with Hamas has led to significant destruction in Gaza, displacing 90% of the population multiple times. The war began when Hamas militants entered southern Israel in October 2023, resulting in casualties and hostages.
On the Syrian front, opposition fighters are taking over military posts abandoned by government forces in the south, nearing the capital, Damascus. Lebanon has approved a plan to deploy more troops along the border with Israel as part of a ceasefire agreement that concluded the Israel-Hezbollah war.
Additionally, the Syrian army has withdrawn from much of southern Syria, leaving areas under opposition control, while sending reinforcements to defend Homs. The situation marks a significant shift in fortunes for President Bashar Assad, with his allies preoccupied elsewhere.
Israeli security forces killed a Palestinian man who attacked them at a West Bank border crossing. In Gaza, Qatar's prime minister notes progress in ceasefire negotiations, with efforts intensifying post-U.S. presidential elections.
Lastly, Israeli strikes have targeted a hospital in northern Gaza, resulting in numerous casualties. The hospital's dire situation has been described as catastrophic, with international organizations working to transfer patients and staff to safety.
Saudi Arabia has reiterated its call for an end to the conflict in Gaza, condemning Israel's actions and advocating for a two-state solution with east Jerusalem as the Palestinian capital.
