In a rapidly evolving situation, Israel readies itself for a ground offensive while U.S. President Joe Biden strongly condemns the ‘sheer evil’ of Hamas attacks. Here are the latest developments:

• The Israeli death toll from Hamas attacks has risen to 1,200, according to Israel’s state broadcaster, Kan.
• Israel conducted more than 70 airstrikes in Gaza overnight.
• Reports from Gaza authorities and media indicate that homes, including one in the Sabra neighborhood, were struck, resulting in casualties.
• Social media is flooded with pleas for help from Gaza residents, with reports of collapsed buildings and people trapped.

Israel has vowed to escalate its response to the Hamas attack with a ground offensive. U.S. President Joe Biden expressed his support for Israel and issued a warning to anyone seeking to exploit the situation. He referred to the Hamas attacks as “an act of sheer evil” and announced increased military assistance to Israel.

The situation remains highly volatile, with rockets fired from southern Lebanon toward Israel’s northern border and shells from Syrian territory landing in Israel, prompting Israeli shelling in response.

Biden has dispatched his top diplomat, Antony Blinken, to Israel to deliver a message of solidarity and support. Israeli leaders are also working on forming an emergency unity government in the face of the crisis.

The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and destruction, with thousands made homeless in Gaza. International humanitarian law remains a concern, as both sides are urged to protect the civilian population and infrastructure.

Violence has also erupted in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, further intensifying tensions in the region.