The Israeli military announced it has killed Muhammad Abd al-Aziz Abu Zubaida, described as the highest-ranking official of the Islamic State group in the Gaza Strip, during a recent strike in central Gaza. Abu Zubaida was reportedly responsible for overseeing the group's operations in the West Bank, Gaza, and Sinai Peninsula, and had facilitated the transfer of weapons and funds into Gaza. Meanwhile, Israeli forces have intensified their operations around Gaza City, ending temporary pauses that had allowed for aid deliveries, as they pursue a plan to capture the city.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with local health authorities reporting rising deaths from malnutrition and starvation, and the World Health Organization warning of critical shortages of medical supplies amid a surge in cases of a rare paralysis-causing syndrome. Disputes have emerged between Israeli officials and the head of the United Nations World Food Programme over the severity of the hunger crisis and the distribution of aid. Despite international opposition, Israel is pressing ahead with its military campaign, urging civilians to evacuate Gaza City and continuing strikes against armed groups.