Israel prepared ‘to fight for months or longer’ to defeat Hamas

An Israeli mobile artillery unit fires a shell from southern Israel towards the Gaza Strip as the Israeli offensive continues (AP Photo/Leo Correa)

Israel said it is prepared to fight for months or longer to defeat Gaza’s Hamas rulers, as its ground offensive intensifies with more airstrikes and artillery fire.

Qatar, which has played a key mediating role, said efforts to stop the war and have all hostages released will continue, but a willingness to discuss a ceasefire is fading.