Israel has launched heavy airstrikes on Gaza, officially ending the ceasefire with Hamas. The attacks, carried out overnight, have left at least 200 people dead, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry spokesperson, Khalil Al-Deqran. The escalation follows failed negotiations over hostage releases and peace proposals.
Israel Justifies Military Action
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the decision to resume military operations was based on Hamas’ refusal to release hostages and its rejection of peace efforts led by U.S. and regional mediators. The Israeli military has been instructed to take “forceful action” to weaken Hamas and pressure the group into compliance.
The renewed violence marks a significant turn in the conflict. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported that their latest strikes targeted Hamas strongholds and infrastructure used for military operations.
Heavy Bombardment and Civilian Casualties
Palestinian emergency services reported at least 35 airstrikes in multiple locations, including Gaza City, Deir Al-Balah, Khan Younis, and Rafah. Witnesses confirmed that residential buildings were hit, resulting in numerous casualties, including women and children. One of the dead was senior Hamas official Mahmoud Abu Watfa.
The humanitarian impact is severe. Medical workers in Gaza are struggling to treat the injured due to a lack of supplies. Hospitals, already overwhelmed by previous attacks, are operating under extreme pressure.
International Response and U.S. Involvement
The White House confirmed that Israel had informed the U.S. before launching the attacks. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Washington was consulted and warned that Hamas, the Houthis, and Iran would face consequences for threatening Israel and the U.S. She added, “Hell will break loose.”
The international community has reacted with concern. The United Nations called for an immediate halt to hostilities, urging both sides to return to negotiations. Humanitarian organizations warned that continued airstrikes would worsen Gaza’s already dire humanitarian crisis.
Hostage Crisis and Failed Peace Talks
The situation has been worsened by the unresolved hostage crisis. Israeli officials stated that 59 hostages remain in Hamas captivity. Of these, 24 are believed to be alive, while the rest are presumed dead. The refusal of Hamas to release captives played a significant role in Israel’s decision to resume military action.
Earlier negotiations had attempted to secure a deal. Israel proposed that Hamas release 11 hostages and return some of the deceased captives in exchange for an extended ceasefire. Hamas, however, demanded a permanent ceasefire and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Talks collapsed as both sides accused each other of violating previous agreements.
The War’s Devastating Toll
The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas and allied militants launched an attack on Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking over 250 hostages. In response, Israel launched a military campaign against Hamas in Gaza.
Since then, Gaza’s Health Ministry claims that more than 48,500 people have died, including many women and children. However, these numbers do not distinguish between civilians and combatants. Israel estimates that it has killed approximately 20,000 Hamas fighters.
Despite international calls for restraint, both sides remain firm in their positions. Hamas continues to demand an end to Israeli military operations, while Israel insists that military pressure is necessary to force Hamas to release hostages and weaken its capabilities.
Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is worsening. The lack of electricity, clean water, and medical supplies has put millions at risk. Humanitarian agencies are urging both sides to allow aid to enter Gaza without restrictions.
In addition, Egypt and Qatar are trying to mediate another ceasefire. The goal is to secure a temporary truce that would allow humanitarian aid and provide time for further negotiations. However, without significant compromises from both sides, peace remains uncertain.
The conflict continues to escalate, raising fears of further casualties and destruction. With no clear resolution in sight, Gaza’s people remain caught in the middle of one of the most devastating wars in the region’s history.