Israel fights to reclaim towns as death toll, hostage fears grow

"My team and I will continue to be in close contact with our Israeli counterparts to ensure they have what they need to protect their citizens and defend themselves against these heinous terrorist attacks." The oil price spiked 5 per cent on supply fears, and investors flocked to gold, a traditional safe haven. However, the Australian dollar edged down to 63.66¢. Amid growing signs of Iranian involvement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's security cabinet formally declared war on Hamas on Sunday, paving the way for Israel's defence force to take "significant military steps" against the terror group. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese…