In a devastating escalation, Israel launched extensive airstrikes across Gaza early Tuesday, shattering a fragile ceasefire that had been in place since January. The strikes, targeting densely populated areas, have resulted in over 400 fatalities, with many victims reported to be women and children. The Palestinian Ministry of Health has confirmed that hundreds more are injured, and rescue operations are ongoing to retrieve those trapped under the rubble.
The Israeli government stated that the strikes were a response to Hamas’ alleged refusal to release hostages and its continued rearmament efforts. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel would intensify its military actions against Hamas, accusing the group of violating the ceasefire agreement. Defense Minister Israel Katz echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the strikes aim to achieve Israel’s war objectives, including the release of hostages.
Hamas, on the other hand, has condemned the attacks, accusing Israel of unilaterally breaking the ceasefire and endangering the lives of captives. The group has called on the international community to intervene, labeling the strikes as a “blatant violation of humanitarian norms.”
The ceasefire, initially brokered in January, had been under strain due to disagreements over its terms. While Hamas pushed for a transition to the second phase of the agreement, which included the release of all hostages and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, Israel sought an extension of the first phase without committing to these conditions. The deadlock ultimately led to the collapse of the truce.
The international community has expressed concern over the renewed violence. The United States, which was consulted by Israel before the strikes, has urged both parties to exercise restraint. Meanwhile, humanitarian organizations are warning of a worsening crisis in Gaza, where hospitals are overwhelmed, and essential supplies are running low.
This latest escalation marks a grim chapter in the ongoing conflict, raising urgent questions about the prospects for peace and the humanitarian toll on civilians.
