Israel bombed areas of Jabalia in the northern Gaza Strip overnight, continuing its offensive against Hamas militants. There have been reports of persistent aerial bombardment and shelling from Israeli tanks, which have moved further into the town. The Israeli military has announced the deaths of eight soldiers, bringing the combat losses to 154 since the ground incursion began. US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have discussed the campaign, with Biden calling for the protection of civilians and the release of all remaining hostages. The United Nations Security Council has urged steps to allow safe and expanded humanitarian access to Gaza, as well as conditions for a sustainable cessation of fighting. The death toll in Gaza has reached 20,258, with thousands more believed to be trapped under rubble. Meanwhile, the conflict has spread as Yemen’s Houthi forces disrupt global trade with missile and drone attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, and Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have threatened to close the Mediterranean Sea if perceived crimes in Gaza continue.