Support for NPR and the following message come from the estate of Joan B. Kroc, whose bequest

serves as an enduring investment in the future of public radio and seeks to help NPR produce programming

that meets the highest standards of public service in journalism and cultural expression.

Live from NPR News in Washington, I'm Corva Coleman.

Israel Security Cabinet has approved a proposal from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. It seeks to expand Israel's war in Gaza

and take control of Gaza City. NPR's Aibatrawi reports. The announcement comes some 23 months into a war

that's already killed tens of thousands of Palestinians. The city,

long the beating heart of Gaza, is home to several of its last partially functioning hospitals

and where tens of thousands of displaced people have set up tent encampments. Israeli troops

already operate in eastern Gaza City under the cover of near constant airstrikes.

It's unclear how the military plans to push further into densely populated areas or where people might be forced to flee to. And announcing the decision Netanyahu's office said that

aid would be distributed to civilians outside of combat zones without elaborating.

Families of Israeli hostages still held by militants

in Gaza are demanding a ceasefire fearing military operations could lead to their deaths.

Aya Batrawe and Pear News. The political battle is escalating in the U.S. over redrawing

congressional maps before next year's midterm elections. Democratic leaders across the country say they're ready

to fight back against President Trump's efforts to secure more safe Republican seats. NPR's

Ashley Lopez reports. This all started with efforts in Texas to draw five more seats for

Republicans. In response, Texas, Democrats fled the state to stall the legislature's approval of a new map.

In the meantime, Democratic leaders across the country are looking at ways to secure more seats for their party.

California Governor Gavin Newsom wants voters to approve a ballot measure that would change their congressional map to add five more safe Democratic seats for the next three election cycles.

New York Governor Kathy Hochel says she's also making plans to, quote, fight fire with fire. Ashley Lopez, NPR News.

...