Gaza

• Hamas released two more hostages - both elderly women - for "humanitarian and health reasons." Their husbands are still captive in Gaza.
• The Hamas-run health ministry reported 436 new deaths in Gaza after the latest round of Israeli airstrikes. Hamas says over 5,000 Gazans have died since Oct. 7.
• While U.S. officials are publicly vocal about their unwavering support for Israel, new media reports suggest that some are privately concerned about Israel's ability to carry out a successful ground invasion and the potential ramifications of an unrestrained invasion - both for hostages in Gaza and for the broader region's stability (especially given that Iran is already "actively facilitating" attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria).
• Behind the scenes, U.S. officials are reportedly urging Israel to "hold off" on an invasion. They're also apparently keeping Qatari intermediaries in the loop so the Qataris will pass word on to Iran.

• SecState Blinken warned that Azerbaijan may attack Armenia anew - this time potentially seeking control of the Zangezur corridor along Armenia's border with Iran. France is already sending Armenia weapons to defend itself against a possible Azerbaijani attack.

• Oil giant Chevron agreed to buy Hess for $53 billion. Analysts say the deal is a sign that oil majors are confident in the future of fossil fuels.
• Hess owns a 30% share of Exxon's Stabroek blocks in Guyana, so Chevron's acquisition means it will become a partner in the Guyana exploration and production operations.