At least 170 people have been killed in Gaza, including 50 in a major Israeli offensive in the north, according to the Hamas-run civil defence agency. The assault reportedly began early Friday with smoke bombs and heavy shelling, BBC reported.

This marks the largest ground operation in northern Gaza since March. The Israeli military has not commented.

Gaza remains under a full blockade for the 10th week, with no access to aid. US Senator Marco Rubio said the US is “troubled” by the worsening humanitarian crisis.

Ceasefire talks in Qatar between Israel and Hamas continue without progress, according to BBC.