Priyanka Tiwari
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In one of its largest attacks since a ceasefire was agreed upon in January, Israel launched a series of airstrikes across the Gaza Strip early on Tuesday, reportedly killing more than 330 people. Most of the casualties were Palestinian women and children.
Mohammed Zaqut, head of the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, confirmed that hundreds were also wounded, with dozens in critical condition. The strikes hit multiple locations, including northern Gaza, Gaza City, and the Deir al-Balah, Khan Younis, and Rafah areas in central and southern Gaza.
Tensions Escalate as Ceasefire Breaks Down
The attacks followed weeks of failed negotiations to extend the truce, which was originally agreed upon on January 19. Israel and Hamas have disagreed over the terms of the ceasefire, particularly regarding the release of hostages taken by Hamas during its October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hamas of repeatedly refusing to release hostages and rejecting proposals from US officials to prolong the truce. Netanyahu’s office stated that Israel would act with increasing military strength against Hamas from now on.
US Support for Israel's Military Action
The White House voiced support for Israel’s airstrikes, stating that it had been consulted before the attacks took place. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt echoed President Trump’s previous statements, warning that groups like Hamas and Iran would face significant consequences for their actions.
National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes emphasized that Hamas had the opportunity to release hostages and extend the ceasefire but chose to continue fighting.
The Ceasefire Controversy
Hamas, in response, accused Israel of violating the ceasefire, claiming the airstrikes undermined the agreement and left the fate of 59 hostages in Gaza uncertain. The ceasefire, brokered in part by US President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, was supposed to enter its second phase at the beginning of March, which included Israel’s full withdrawal from Gaza and the permanent end to the war in exchange for the release of all hostages.
However, Netanyahu has insisted that Israel will not end the war until Hamas is fully defeated.
Casualties and Displacement in Gaza
The war, which began when Hamas militants stormed southern Israel on October 7, 2023, has caused devastating losses. Israeli forces have killed over 48,000 Palestinians, according to local health officials. Additionally, an estimated 90% of Gaza’s population has been displaced due to the ongoing conflict.
Read More: For Palestinians, this was never a ceasefire Dalia Hatuqa
