**Latest Updates on the Israel-Hamas Conflict**
**Israeli Military Orders Mass Evacuation in Khan Younis**
The Israeli military has issued a new mass evacuation order for large areas around Khan Younis in southern Gaza. This move comes as the military prepares for operations in response to ongoing Palestinian rocket fire. Khan Younis, Gaza’s second-largest city, has previously seen extensive damage from air and ground operations earlier this year. Israeli forces have returned to heavily damaged areas for renewed operations against Hamas and other militants since the war began 10 months ago.
**Cease-Fire Talks Resume**
Israel has confirmed it will participate in indirect cease-fire talks with Hamas starting August 15, following a proposal from the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar. These negotiations aim to halt the fighting and address the issue of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The discussions will take place in either Doha or Cairo. The recent assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has heightened regional tensions, impacting the negotiation process.
**U.S. Deploys F-22 Raptors to the Middle East**
The U.S. Air Force has dispatched F-22 Raptor fighter jets to the Middle East from a base in the UK. The deployment is intended to address threats from Iran and Iranian-backed groups. This move follows recent escalations, including the killing of Hamas’ Haniyeh and a senior Hezbollah commander by Israel, which have intensified regional instability.
**Israeli Airstrikes in Gaza**
Israeli airstrikes have targeted two schools in Gaza City that were being used as shelters, resulting in at least 16 deaths. The Israeli military stated that the schools were being used by Hamas as cover for their operations. The strikes have further strained Gaza’s humanitarian situation, with the death toll nearing 40,000 according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
**Norway's Diplomatic Challenges**
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide announced that Israel will no longer facilitate Norwegian diplomats working in the occupied territories. This decision affects Norway’s ability to assist the Palestinian population and is expected to strain diplomatic relations between Norway and Israel.
**Israeli Soldiers Detained**
An Israeli military court has extended the detention of five soldiers accused of sexually assaulting a Palestinian detainee. The case has sparked significant controversy and criticism, with rights groups calling for accountability and the closure of the detention facility where the alleged assault occurred.
**Saudi Arabia Condemns Assassination of Hamas Leader**
Saudi Arabia has condemned the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, describing it as a “flagrant violation” of international law. This statement reflects rising tensions and fears of broader regional conflict.
These updates reflect the ongoing and complex nature of the conflict and international responses to the situation in Gaza and the broader Middle East.
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