CAIRO/GAZA/JERUSALEM - In a renewed diplomatic initiative, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Europe's senior diplomat Josep Borrell have embarked on a mission to prevent the Gaza conflict's spillover into the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Lebanon, and Red Sea shipping lanes. This move follows three months of hostilities initiated by Hamas militants, leading to extensive damage in Gaza.

Israeli forces, responding to the October 7 attack by Hamas, have shifted to a more targeted approach amid global pressure to minimize civilian casualties. However, reports from Gaza suggest intensified attacks on densely populated areas, resulting in a significant number of casualties.

The latest figures indicate 162 people killed in the past 24 hours, with additional deaths reported in southern Gaza due to Israeli strikes. The toll includes victims of air strikes on residential areas and streets, drawing international condemnation.

The conflict's repercussions have extended beyond Gaza, affecting the West Bank, where violence has escalated. The Palestinian health ministry reports a death toll of 300 in the West Bank since the conflict erupted.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to visit the West Bank, part of a week-long tour that includes stops in Turkey, Israel, Jordan, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. The aim is to prevent the conflict from spreading beyond Gaza, as emphasized by State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.

Hamas, backed by Iran, remains a key player in the conflict. The U.S. has offered a reward of up to $10 million for information on Hamas sponsors, reflecting its commitment to disrupting the group's financial support.

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh called on the U.S. to end aggression towards Palestinians, criticizing the blind support for Israel. Meanwhile, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah claimed his militia conducted around 670 military operations on the Israel-Lebanon border, highlighting the wider regional impact.

The conflict's influence extends to the Red Sea, where Houthi rebels in Yemen, aligned with Iran, have targeted commercial vessels since November 19, impacting global trade.

As the situation unfolds, the international community remains engaged in diplomatic efforts to mitigate the crisis. The World Health Organization has expressed concern over the frequent attacks on medical infrastructure in Gaza, further complicating the humanitarian situation.

In a gesture of support, France and Jordan air-dropped seven tonnes of aid for a field hospital in Khan Younis, underscoring the urgent need for humanitarian assistance amid the ongoing conflict.