Israel Launches Airstrikes On Gaza Following Ceasefire Breakdown.
The Israeli military has launched a series of airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, with at least 330 Palestinians reported killed, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) described the operation as targeting “terror targets” belonging to Hamas.
Among those reportedly killed in the strikes was Mahmoud Abu Wafah, Gaza’s deputy interior minister and the highest-ranking Hamas security official in the territory. This marks the most extensive wave of airstrikes since the ceasefire took effect on 19 January, following the collapse of negotiations to extend the truce.
Pre-Dawn Strikes During Ramadan
Eyewitnesses described the sudden bombardment, which began as many were preparing their pre-dawn meal during the holy month of Ramadan. Reports indicate that more than 20 Israeli warplanes carried out strikes on Gaza City, Rafah, and Khan Younis.
A statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that he and Defence Minister Israel Katz had ordered the strikes early on Tuesday. The decision, it said, was in response to Hamas’s “repeated refusal to release our hostages” and the group’s rejection of mediation efforts led by US Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff.
“Israel will, from now on, act against Hamas with increasing military strength,” the statement added. The plan for the strikes had been presented by the IDF over the weekend and was subsequently approved by Israel’s political leadership.
Hamas Accuses Israel of Breaking Ceasefire
Hamas has strongly condemned the Israeli military action, accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire and endangering the remaining Israeli hostages held in Gaza. The group has not yet declared a formal resumption of hostilities but has called on international mediators and the United Nations to intervene.
Israel’s ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, issued a stern warning to Hamas, demanding the release of all hostages and stating, “We will show no mercy on our enemies.”
A White House spokesperson confirmed that Israel had consulted with the US government before carrying out the strikes. The situation remains highly volatile, with the possibility of further escalation in the coming days.
