Hamas Fires Rockets at Southern Israel Amid Ongoing Gaza Conflict:

On Sunday, Palestinian militant group Hamas fired a series of rockets toward southern Israeli cities. The group claimed it was retaliating for what it described as Israeli “massacres” of civilians in Gaza.

Israel's military reported that approximately 10 projectiles were launched, most of which were intercepted. However, a direct hit was confirmed in Ashkelon, according to Israel’s Channel 12.

Injuries and Damage in Ashkelon

Emergency services in Israel reported treating one person for shrapnel injuries. Response teams were dispatched to locations where rockets had landed. Video footage released by emergency teams showed shattered car windows and scattered debris on city streets.

Israeli Strikes Kill Dozens in Gaza

Meanwhile, health authorities in Gaza reported that at least 39 people were killed on Sunday due to Israeli military airstrikes across the territory.

Following the rocket launch, the Israeli military issued a new evacuation order for residents in Deir Al-Balah, a city in central Gaza. The military's message warned residents to evacuate immediately, stating, “This is a final warning before the attack.” Subsequently, the military confirmed that it targeted the launcher used in the rocket attack.

Netanyahu Orders Military Response

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, en route to Washington to meet U.S. President Donald Trump, was updated on the situation by Defense Minister Israel Katz. A statement from Netanyahu’s office said he authorized a “vigorous” military response and approved continued operations against Hamas.

According to Channel 12, at least 12 individuals received treatment for minor injuries related to the rocket fire, citing data from Ashkelon’s Barzilai Hospital.

Fragile Ceasefire Collapses

A ceasefire agreement had been initiated on January 19, bringing a temporary halt to fighting. It included the exchange of hostages and prisoners. However, by March 19, Israel resumed ground operations in southern and central Gaza, blaming Hamas for halting progress in peace talks.

Ongoing Human Toll in the Conflict

Palestinian officials report that over 50,000 people have died as a result of Israel’s offensive. The conflict began after the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led assault on southern Israeli communities, which left 1,200 Israelis dead and 251 abducted, according to Israeli figures.