TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says there is “no way” Israel will halt its war in Gaza, even if a deal is reached to release more hostages.

Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu defiantly ramps up the war in Gaza, despite mounting pressure from Trump and castigation by France's president.

At least 50 people, including 22 children, were killed in strikes around Jabaliya in northern Gaza alone, according to hospitals and Gaza’s Health Ministry.

Israel is intensifying its assault on Gaza as President Trump visits the Gulf region. At least 70 Palestinians, including many children, were killed earlier today when Israel struck five residential buildings in Jabaliya city and its refugee camp.

The link between budget cuts and Gaza aid pressures, the breaking point for women-led groups, UN80, and the relief chief’s genocide speech.

Meanwhile, Trump said Qatar's ruling emir, Sheikh Tamim Al Thani reminded him of the Saudi crown prince. He called them both "tall, handsome guys that happen to be very smart" — the latest display of warm relations between the president and his Gulf Arab hosts.

If there is to be a breakthrough in ceasefire talks, it will require the US president to change his position and put pressure on Israel.

U.S. President Donald Trump met with Syria's president in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday and urged him to normalise ties with longtime foe Israel, after a surprise U.S. announcement that it would lift all sanctions on the Islamist-led government.

After ending a ceasefire two months ago, Israel is intensifying the war in the Gaza Strip, where a blockade on food, medicine and other supplies is worsening a humanitarian crisis. And Iran, an enemy of Israel and a rival of Saudi Arabia, stands on the cusp of being able to develop nuclear weapons.