Israel has officially ended its ceasefire with Hamas and launched a series of intense airstrikes on the Gaza Strip overnight. The strikes have resulted in significant casualties, with Gaza’s Health Ministry spokesperson, Khalil Al-Deqran, reporting at least 200 deaths on Tuesday alone.
Israeli Government’s Stance on Resuming Military Operations
The Israeli government, under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, confirmed the termination of the ceasefire and the resumption of military actions. Israeli officials cited Hamas’ continued refusal to release hostages and its rejection of multiple diplomatic efforts as the primary reasons for resuming the offensive. U.S. mediator Steve Witkoff had been involved in negotiations, but those efforts were unsuccessful.
Netanyahu’s government has stated that the military would act “with full force” and that Israel would escalate its offensive in the coming days if necessary. The announcement signals a return to a more aggressive military strategy after the temporary pause in hostilities.
Airstrikes Target Key Areas in Gaza
Palestinian emergency services reported that at least 35 airstrikes hit multiple locations across Gaza, including residential areas in Deir Al-Balah, Gaza City, Khan Younis, and Rafah. Local medical personnel confirmed numerous fatalities, including many children and senior Hamas leader Mahmoud Abu Watfa, who was killed during one of the airstrikes.
The escalation follows weeks of tense ceasefire negotiations, and the international community has reacted strongly to the renewed violence. In a statement, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Israel had briefed U.S. officials prior to the airstrikes. Leavitt issued a stern warning, stating that Hamas, along with other groups like the Houthis and Iran, would face consequences for threatening Israel and the United States. She added, “Hell will break loose” in response to these threats.
Hostage Situation and Failed Diplomatic Efforts
The hostage situation remains a key point of contention in the ongoing conflict. There are still 59 hostages held by Hamas, with Israeli officials emphasizing that the group’s failure to release additional captives prompted the military’s decision to resume operations. Although the ceasefire had been in place, sporadic violence had continued in Gaza, and Israel claims Hamas still holds 24 living hostages and the bodies of 35 others.
Recent diplomatic efforts to extend the ceasefire collapsed after both sides failed to agree on the terms. On Sunday, Israel proposed an extension of the ceasefire in exchange for Hamas releasing 11 hostages and returning the bodies of deceased captives. However, Hamas refused this proposal, demanding a permanent ceasefire and full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Efforts by Mediators and Growing Casualties
Mediators from Egypt and Qatar, with the support of the United States, attempted to facilitate peace talks. Israel offered to extend the ceasefire through Ramadan and Passover in April, but only if all hostages were released. Despite these efforts, Hamas insisted on a full withdrawal of Israeli forces and a permanent ceasefire, citing the original agreement.
The conflict, which began when Hamas and allied militant groups attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, has resulted in catastrophic loss of life. The Gaza Health Ministry, controlled by Hamas, reports over 48,500 deaths in Gaza, though it is difficult to independently verify these numbers due to the ongoing conflict. Israel’s military estimates that approximately 20,000 Hamas fighters have been killed in the war.
Global Reactions and Continued Tensions
As the violence continues, leaders around the world have expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. International calls for a ceasefire and a peaceful resolution have grown louder, but both sides remain entrenched in their positions. The situation remains dire, and the future of peace in the region remains uncertain.
