Authorities in the Gaza Strip say seven people, including at least four newborns and infants, have died due to severe cold. Multiple media blame hypothermia for the babies' deaths.

The authorities made the announcement on Monday amid little prospect for Israel and the Islamic group Hamas to agree on a ceasefire.

Many people in Gaza are living in tents after they were displaced by Israeli attacks.

Local health officials say the death toll in Gaza since fighting erupted in October 2023 has climbed to 45,541. Israel launched a military campaign in response to assaults by Hamas and other militants on the country.

The Israeli military has attacked medical institutions during the offensive, saying Hamas fighters are operating from them.

The International Committee of the Red Cross issued a statement on Monday, calling for Israeli forces to avoid hitting medical facilities. The committee said repeated hostilities in and around hospitals in northern Gaza "have obliterated the health care system" in the area.