In response to a deadly drone strike by the Iran-backed Houthi group in Tel Aviv, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) launched an attack on Houthi targets at the port of Hodeidah in Yemen. The IDF stated that their action was a direct response to the drone attack, which claimed the life of one person.

Meanwhile, Gaza witnessed intense clashes as Israeli forces pounded several areas across the strip, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 30 Palestinians. Health officials in Gaza reported that tanks advanced further into western and northern Rafah, escalating the violence in the region.

The conflict between Israel and its neighboring countries further worsened as a barrage of over 40 rockets were fired from Lebanon towards Israel. Some of these rockets were intercepted, while others fell in open areas, heightening tensions in the region.

Despite ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire involving Egyptian mediators, Hamas sources indicate that there has been no significant breakthrough in the talks thus far. The situation remains delicate, and efforts are underway to find a peaceful resolution to the mounting crisis.

In Israel, protests demanding the release of hostages held in Gaza took place across the country. Einav Zanguaker, the mother of Israeli hostage Matan Zanguaker, voiced her disappointment in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, claiming that he prioritizes saving his political position over protecting lives.

At a demonstration in Tel Aviv, former U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Thomas Nides, called upon Prime Minister Netanyahu to use his influence during his address to the U.S. Congress, urging them to bring the hostages home.

The hostage crisis, coupled with escalating violence and attacks from various fronts, have created an atmosphere of uncertainty and instability in the region. Efforts are being made to deescalate the situation, but the ultimate goal of bringing peace and stability to the area remains elusive.