Israel Intensifies Gaza, Yemen Airstrikes Killing 108 Amid Hostage Crisis

Israel intensified airstrikes across northern and southern Gaza, killing at least 108 people, mostly women and children, as part of a campaign to pressure Hamas to release hostages. The strikes, which also targeted two ports in Yemen used by the Houthi militant group for weapons transfers, followed days of prior attacks that left over 130 dead. These military actions coincided with the conclusion of President Donald Trump's Middle East visit, which included stops in three Gulf states but notably excluded Israel, raising hopes for a ceasefire or renewed humanitarian aid that did not materialize. Trump acknowledged the crises in Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need to address starvation and suffering there. Israeli officials warned that unless a hostage release agreement is rapidly reached, a major ground offensive in Gaza, dubbed the 'Gideon Chariots' campaign, could begin with indefinite military presence. Residents of Gaza experienced displacement and destruction, with many fleeing bombarded areas amid escalating violence.