The conflict between Israel and Hamas has intensified, with both sides reporting a surge in casualties and the capture of civilians and soldiers.

The Palestinian health ministry in Gaza has confirmed at least 232 Palestinians killed by Israeli air strikes, up from the earlier count of 198 fatalities. Additionally, over 1,610 people have been injured in the strikes, highlighting the escalating human toll.

On the Israeli side, local media reports a rise in casualties to at least 200, surpassing the earlier count of 100 fatalities. More than 1,100 people have been injured in the Hamas attack, up from 985, according to the health ministry.

Israel launched “Operation Sword of Iron” in response to Hamas’s incursion, targeting Gaza from the air. The conflict has resulted in the capture of Israeli civilians and soldiers by Hamas fighters. Elderly women with dementia and workers from Thailand and the Philippines are among the reported captives.

A senior Hamas official stated that the group holds “a large number” of Israeli prisoners, including senior officers, with the intention of a potential exchange for Palestinian detainees in Israeli jails.

Hamas has fired 150 missiles towards Tel Aviv, a major response to the bombing of a residential tower in Gaza City. Israel’s military warns of imminent ground operations, heightening concerns of further escalation.

The United Nations Security Council is set to convene an emergency session, responding to Brazil’s call after Hamas launched a significant attack on Israel. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack and urged diplomatic efforts to avoid a wider conflagration.

Amidst the intensifying conflict, dozens of Israeli soldiers are reportedly being held captive by Hamas militants, with hostages taken to secure locations and tunnels. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing hostage scenarios reported in the towns of Ofakim and Beeri.