Balanced News: Hamas says 8,300 killed in Gaza as Israel sends in more ground forces

Israeli troops have entered the Gaza Strip as part of the “next stage” of their war against Hamas militants. Health officials in Gaza claim that over 8,300 people, including over 3,400 children, have been killed in the three weeks of Israeli artillery and missile strikes. Israel insists it is only targeting militant groups, blaming Hamas for hiding among the civilian population. Palestinians in the West Bank have also been clashing with Israeli forces, with almost 330 Palestinians killed since October 7. Aid agencies are calling for a wider opening of the border to allow more supplies into Gaza.