Palestinian families are fleeing eastern Gaza City amid heavy bombardment and fears of an Israeli ground offensive that could uproot hundreds of thousands. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called Gaza City Hamas’ last stronghold, but Israeli officials warn an assault could endanger the 50 hostages still held and lead to prolonged urban warfare, according to Reuters.

The planned offensive has sparked mass protests in Israel demanding a ceasefire and hostage release. In Gaza, unions have called for demonstrations urging Hamas to push harder in negotiations.

Egyptian and Qatari mediators have intensified ceasefire talks in Cairo with Hamas and allied groups. While previous efforts collapsed in July, Hamas has indicated willingness to consider a US-proposed 60-day truce with partial hostage release as part of a wider deal to end the war, Reuters reported.