Israel's sustained bombardment of Gaza is further narrowing the possibility of a new truce, according to the Qatari prime minister. The Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, declared that "the war is in full swing" on Sunday, stating that dozens of Hamas terrorists had surrendered to Israeli forces in recent days.

The ongoing conflict has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with the Hamas-run health agency reporting that the death toll among Palestinians has now risen to almost 18,000. In an audio message, the armed wing of Hamas acknowledged the credibility of the temporary ceasefire, asserting that no more hostages would be released until Israel agreed to engage in talks. The spokesman also claimed that Hamas fighters had successfully destroyed 180 military vehicles and inflicted casualties on a significant number of Israeli soldiers, promising that more strikes against Israel were imminent.

At a conference in Doha, Philippe Lazzarini, the head of UNRWA, highlighted the dire situation in Gaza, describing it as "hell on earth" and the worst he had witnessed. Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh called for international sanctions against Israel, claiming that it should not be allowed to violate international humanitarian law. It is worth noting that Shtayyeh represents the Palestinian Authority, which operates in the West Bank and is distinct from the Hamas government in Gaza.

As the conference was underway, Khan Younis, a city in southern Gaza that had been suggested as a safe area, came under heavy bombardment, prompting Israel to urge civilians to evacuate its center. Mark Regev, a senior Israeli adviser, warned of intense fighting in Khan Younis and advised civilians to seek refuge in designated safe zones.

Amidst the escalating conflict, Israel has criticized its allies for adopting an inconsistent approach. Netanyahu argued that it is contradictory to support the elimination of Hamas while simultaneously urging Israel to end the war, which could prevent Hamas from being defeated. Israel also refuted claims by the head of UNRWA that it was attempting to force Gazans into Egypt.

The World Health Organization passed a resolution demanding immediate medical access to Gaza, highlighting the catastrophic conditions and inability to deliver essential supplies, including food, as reported by the UN World Food Programme.

As the Gaza conflict rages on, the prospect of a new truce seems increasingly remote, leaving the region in a state of turmoil and despair.