In a significant development, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has announced that the United States has engaged in discussions with Israel to make the ongoing conflict in Gaza more "surgical." Austin, who spoke in Tel Aviv, reiterated US support for Israel while emphasizing the need to reduce harm to civilians and transition to "lower intensity operations."

The announcement comes in the wake of health officials in Hamas-run Gaza reporting that Israeli airstrikes in Jabalia late on Sunday resulted in the tragic loss of 110 lives. Israel, however, has not provided specific comments on the incident and maintains that it is targeting what it refers to as terrorist infrastructure.

At the United Nations Security Council, the US is reportedly working to temper the language of a new draft resolution that calls for a cessation of hostilities. The move reflects a nuanced approach as the international community seeks to address the escalating tensions in the region.

The conflict erupted when Hamas breached Israel's heavily guarded perimeter on October 7, resulting in the loss of 1,200 lives and the taking of 240 hostages. Some hostages were released during a brief truce, but the situation remains volatile. The health ministry in Gaza, under Hamas control, reports a grim toll, stating that more than 19,400 people have been killed and 52,000 injured in the enclave since the beginning of the Gaza war.

The developments underscore the complex diplomatic efforts underway to navigate the sensitive situation, balancing support for Israel with concerns for civilian casualties and a potential de-escalation of hostilities. The international community, particularly the UN Security Council, remains actively engaged in seeking a resolution to the crisis.