As the conflict between Israel and Hamas enters its second month, there is growing concern from Western allies over Israel's approach to fighting the militant group. Calls for Israel to do more to protect Palestinian civilians have intensified, as the number of civilian casualties continues to rise.
French President Emmanuel Macron has pushed for a cease-fire and called on other leaders to join his call, stating that there is "no justification" for Israel's ongoing bombing. The United States has also been pushing for temporary pauses in the fighting to allow for the distribution of aid to the besieged territory.
However, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended the country's actions, placing the responsibility for civilian harm on Hamas. Netanyahu has accused Hamas of using civilians in Gaza as human shields and stated that Israel has encouraged civilians to leave combat zones.
There are growing differences in how Israel's allies believe the country should conduct its fight against Hamas. While Israel has implemented brief daily periods for civilians to flee combat zones, many Palestinians remain in northern Gaza, seeking shelter in hospitals and overcrowded UN facilities.
Amidst the conflict, Doctors Without Borders has reported losing contact with its staff inside Gaza's largest hospital, Al-Shifa Hospital. The humanitarian group expressed extreme concern for the safety of staff and patients at the facility, which has been subject to heavy bombing.
As the conflict continues to escalate, the situation in Gaza remains dire, with conditions deteriorating and civilian casualties mounting. Allies of Israel are increasingly urging the country to reassess its approach in order to prevent further harm to Palestinian civilians.