Gaza – The fragile ceasefire in Gaza has been shattered as Israel launched a series of airstrikes overnight, targeting Hamas leaders and key locations across the territory. Reports indicate that over 400 people have been killed, with significant destruction in Gaza City, northern Gaza, Deir al-Balah, Khan Younis, and Rafah. The Israeli military claims the strikes are a direct response to Hamas' failure to release Israeli hostages.
Israeli forces have also reportedly fired tank shells into Rafah, raising concerns that a new ground operation could be imminent. This escalation marks a return to pre-January 19th conditions, when the ceasefire was first implemented. The Israeli government insists that Hamas’ refusal to free around 60 Israeli hostages left them with no choice but to resume military action.
Hamas Responds Amid Humanitarian Crisis
Eyewitness accounts describe harrowing scenes of families buried under rubble, with rescue workers struggling to pull survivors from collapsed buildings. Hamas has condemned the airstrikes and warned of retaliation. The group had previously proposed releasing an Israeli-American hostage in exchange for an extension of the ceasefire, but the deal did not materialize.
Meanwhile, humanitarian agencies are warning of an impending catastrophe as access to essential supplies is further restricted. Israel had already blocked food aid and cut electricity supplies to Gaza earlier this month in an effort to pressure Hamas into releasing the remaining hostages.
International Reactions and U.S. Support for Israel
The White House confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump was consulted before Israel resumed its military campaign. The U.S. has largely backed Israel’s stance, arguing that any ceasefire must be contingent on the full release of Israeli hostages. Washington has also criticized Hamas for what it calls "public deception and private intransigence" in negotiations.
The United Nations has called for an immediate halt to hostilities and renewed diplomatic efforts to restore peace. However, with both sides refusing to budge on their demands, the possibility of a prolonged conflict looms large.
A Widening Conflict?
The Gaza escalation comes at a time of heightened global tensions. In the Red Sea, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels have launched their third attack on U.S. warships within 48 hours, vowing further strikes in support of Hamas. Meanwhile, the Ukraine war remains at a critical juncture, with a much-anticipated phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin expected to discuss a potential ceasefire.
As the world watches these unfolding crises, diplomatic efforts face an uphill battle. With both Israel and Hamas digging in their heels, and international players positioning themselves in different camps, the road to peace in Gaza appears more uncertain than ever.
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