Israel has launched a series of devastating airstrikes on Gaza, marking the most extensive military action since a temporary ceasefire began two months ago. The Israeli government confirmed the attacks overnight, stating they targeted “terror infrastructure.”
However, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, at least 322 people have been killed, including high-ranking Hamas security official Mahmoud Abu Wafah. Health officials in Gaza report that the majority of the casualties are women and children.
The latest escalation follows a fragile truce that was brokered by former U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration and finalized with efforts from Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy. The ceasefire had been in place since January 19, but tensions remained high.
Israel Justifies Strikes Amid Stalled Peace Talks
Netanyahu’s officials have accused Hamas of failing to make progress in extending the ceasefire and have cited the continued detention of Israeli hostages as a justification for the renewed offensive.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office released a statement claiming that Hamas repeatedly refused to release hostages and rejected proposals from U.S. Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff and other mediators.
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“Israel will, from now on, act against Hamas with increasing military strength,” the statement read. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the strikes were aimed at “terror targets” and that the military operation had been approved by political leaders over the weekend.
Hamas, however, has condemned the airstrikes as a betrayal of the ceasefire agreement, warning that the attacks put the remaining 59 Israeli hostages at risk. While Hamas has not formally declared an end to the truce, the group has accused Israel of unilateral aggression.
Global Reactions: White House Support, UK Concerns
The White House confirmed that it had been informed in advance of Israel’s plans and expressed support for the military action. Meanwhile, the UK government has responded with calls for diplomatic efforts to restore peace.
Cabinet Office Minister Pat McFadden emphasized the UK’s ongoing influence, stating, “We will use whatever diplomatic influence we have to try to get that ceasefire restored as soon as possible.”
Foreign Secretary David Lammy took a stronger stance, criticizing Netanyahu’s country for the recent blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza, calling it a violation of international law. This marks the first time a senior UK government official has publicly accused Israel of such a breach.
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