Israeli forces have launched a significant attack on Gaza, breaching the recent two-month truce with Hamas. Early on Tuesday, the assault resulted in the deaths of over 200 Palestinians, as stated by Gaza’s Government Media Office. The casualties were reported across various regions, including Khan Younis in the south and Gaza City in the north, with medical sources confirming the numbers.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the military to intensify its actions against Hamas in response to the group’s refusal to release Israeli captives or extend the ceasefire. The Israeli military confirmed its targeting of what it deems “terror targets” associated with Hamas.
Hamas perceives these strikes as a violation of the ceasefire that took effect on January 19, warning that Israel’s actions will not go unanswered. The Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) accused Israel of sabotaging negotiations for a ceasefire, stating that such efforts will fail against the resilience of the Palestinian people and the bravery of their fighters.
The violence has caused fear among the Gazan population, with residents like teacher Ahmed Abu Rizq recounting their experiences of waking up to the sounds of strikes and the chaos that ensued as ambulances moved through the streets, carrying the remains of those lost.
Al Jazeera’s Hamdah Salhut reported that while Israel accuses Hamas of rejecting proposals, the negotiations had stalled due to Netanyahu’s refusal to commence discussions on the second phase of the ceasefire deal in February. Israeli analysts suggested that this escalation follows a long-planned strategy to return to full conflict, with the new chief of staff implying that 2025 will see ongoing military engagements.
The ceasefire had initially led to the release of dozens of captives by Hamas in exchange for thousands of Palestinian prisoners. However, the discussions regarding the second phase, which would include the release of remaining captives and establish a permanent truce, were at a standstill due to Israel’s push for an extension of the first phase.
The motives behind the Israeli attacks are unclear, but they could signify either a single large-scale operation or the initiation of a broader campaign. Mouin Rabbani, a fellow at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs, noted that while negotiations on the second phase could lead to a durable ceasefire and Israeli military withdrawal, such actions conflict with the Israeli government’s declared stance.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the strikes were discussed with United States President Donald Trump, who reiterated his stance that entities hostile to Israel and the U.S. will face consequences, warning of severe repercussions.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/3/18/israel-launches-gaza-assault-killing-hundreds-and-shattering-ceasefire?traffic_source=rss
