Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks at the Israeli parliament. (Photo by Amir Levy/Getty Images)
EPICSTORIAN — Israeli airstrikes hit multiple targets across Gaza late Tuesday, breaking the ceasefire and triggering widespread destruction.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the offensive, accusing Hamas of rejecting diplomatic efforts to secure hostage releases, CNN reported Earlier.
A statement from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israeli Security Agency confirmed “extensive strikes” on Hamas positions. Defense Minister Israel Katz declared, “Tonight, we returned to fighting in Gaza.”
Hamas condemned the renewed assault, calling it a “unilateral decision” by Israel. Basem Naim, a senior Hamas official, reported over 34 deaths and warned that hostages held in Gaza now face “an unknown fate.”
Delayed Lasting Ceasefire Results in Rising Casualties and Widespread Destruction
Rescue teams struggled to reach those trapped under collapsed buildings as bombardments intensified across the enclave. Mahmoud Bassal, spokesperson for Gaza’s Civil Defense, confirmed at least 15 fatalities in Gaza City, including five children. Another 20 people suffered injuries.
In central Gaza’s Nuseirat refugee camp, Al-Awda Hospital reported over 70 injured arrivals following airstrikes on residential areas. Smoke filled the air as explosions rocked multiple locations.
Israel’s Justification for Renewed Strikes
Netanyahu and Katz ordered the operation after failed negotiations with Hamas. A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office described the strikes as part of efforts to achieve “war goals as determined by the political echelon, including the release of all our hostages—living and dead.”
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The statement continued, “From now on, Israel will act against Hamas with increasing military strength.”
Officials claim Hamas repeatedly rejected proposals from U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and other mediators. Talks had centered on securing a deal for hostages, but Israel accused Hamas of refusing to comply.
