- Israel launched fresh air raids on Gaza, killing over 400 people overnight.
- Attacks targeted densely populated areas, including shelters and residential buildings.
- Hamas accused Israel of violating the ceasefire and committing genocide.
- The US confirmed that Israel consulted them before resuming the offensive.
- Families of Israeli captives blamed their government for disrupting negotiations.
Israel resumed its military offensive on Gaza in the early hours of Tuesday, launching heavy airstrikes across multiple regions. The attacks killed at least 404 people, including women, children, and the elderly.
The Israeli government announced the resumption of hostilities through Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, citing the need to pressure Hamas into releasing captives. This escalation follows failed negotiations for a prolonged ceasefire.
Israeli Airstrikes Devastate Gaza
Israeli airstrikes and tank shelling hit northern, central, and southern Gaza. Al Jazeera reported that Israeli tanks bombed Abasan in Khan Younis. Other air raids heavily damaged residential areas and makeshift shelters, causing widespread destruction.
Journalist Tareq Abou Azzoum shared his observations, saying, “Most of the airstrikes hit heavily built-up neighborhoods, temporary schools, and residential buildings where displaced civilians sought shelter.” The raids left little standing in the affected areas.
According to Gaza’s Government Media Office, most victims were women, children, and elderly individuals. Many families were completely wiped out. The office also mentioned that an unknown number of bodies remain trapped under rubble.
“The catastrophic humanitarian situation, coupled with the lack of fuel and medical supplies, has caused many injured individuals to die before reaching hospitals,” the office said. Gaza’s healthcare system, already crippled, is now overwhelmed by the extent of the destruction.
Israel’s Justification for Breaking the Ceasefire
The Israeli government claims that the renewed offensive is necessary to force Hamas to release the remaining 59 Israeli captives in Gaza. Israeli officials also alleged that Hamas was using the ceasefire period to rearm and prepare for another attack.
However, reports indicate that Israel unilaterally withdrew from negotiations aimed at achieving a long-term ceasefire and hostage release. Al Jazeera’s Hamdah Salhut reported, “Israel had been avoiding the second phase of the ceasefire agreement, with backing from the US, while Hamas insisted on continuing negotiations as initially agreed.”
Hamas’ Response to the Attacks
Hamas strongly condemned Israel’s actions, accusing the country of violating international and humanitarian laws. In a statement released on Telegram, the group described the offensive as part of an ongoing genocide against Palestinians.
“The Israeli government is responsible for the renewed aggression and the worsening humanitarian crisis,” Hamas stated. They also claimed Israeli airstrikes intentionally targeted civilians, preventing medical aid from reaching those in need.
The White House confirmed that Israel consulted the US before launching the attacks. However, there was no indication that the US tried to prevent the escalation. International organizations, including the United Nations, have warned Israel against these operations, citing violations of international law.
Status of Israeli Captives
Approximately 59 Israeli captives remain in Gaza, with Israeli sources claiming that fewer than half are still alive. Hamas has accused Israel of jeopardizing hostage negotiations by resuming attacks instead of prioritizing their safe return.
Families of the captives expressed outrage over the Israeli government’s handling of the situation. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum issued a statement saying, “We are shocked, angry, and scared about the deliberate disruption of the process to return our loved ones from captivity.”
Escalation and the Bigger Picture
Israel’s actions in Gaza seem part of a wider regional strategy. Recently, the Israeli military launched attacks in southern Lebanon and Syria, justifying them as necessary for national security. These operations are seen as an effort to strengthen Israel’s position in the region.
In the occupied West Bank, Israeli forces continue frequent raids on refugee camps. They claim these operations target Palestinian militants. However, experts argue these groups don’t pose a significant threat but formed in response to ongoing Israeli aggression.
The renewed war on Gaza has worsened the region’s humanitarian crisis. As airstrikes persist, international pressure grows for a ceasefire and a resolution. Despite stalled negotiations and rising civilian casualties, the situation remains critical for Palestinians trapped in the conflict.