Israel breaks the ceasefire in Gaza

Israel launched an aerial offensive in the Gaza Strip, resulting in the deaths of at least 404 Palestinians, including women and children.

The bombings occurred after Hamas refused to modify the terms of the ceasefire that had been in effect since January.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the operation and warned that it will intensify in the coming days.

The White House confirmed that it was consulted before the attacks and expressed its support for Israel.

Evacuations and possible ground offensive

The Israeli military ordered the evacuation of eastern Gaza, including parts of Beit Hanoun and other communities.

The evacuation orders suggest that Israel may resume ground operations in Palestinian territory.

Netanyahu assured that Israel will act with increasing military force against Hamas.

The bombings coincided with Ramadan, heightening tensions and the risk of further escalation.

A senior Hamas official warned that the Israeli offensive represents a «death sentence» for the hostages.

Hamas accused Netanyahu of resuming the war for political interests, to strengthen his far-right coalition.

At least four high-ranking members of Hamas were killed in the attacks, according to reports from the group.

There was no immediate response from Hamas, suggesting they are still seeking to restore the truce.

Netanyahu faces internal pressure, with scheduled protests against his handling of the hostage crisis.

His decision to fire the head of the Shin Bet security agency has sparked great controversy.

The Hostage and Missing Families Forum accused the government of abandoning the captives.

Since the end of the first phase of the ceasefire, the parties have not managed to agree on a second phase.

Hamas demands an end to the war and Israeli withdrawal in exchange for the remaining hostages.

Israel insists that the war will not end until Hamas’s military and governmental capabilities are destroyed.

Netanyahu seeks to avoid the terms of the second phase of the agreement and maintain control of Gaza.

The Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, left 1,200 dead in Israel and more than 200 hostages.

Since then, the Israeli offensive has killed more than 48,000 Palestinians, according to local health officials.

90% of Gaza’s population has been displaced, and the humanitarian crisis continues to escalate.

Israel maintains a blockade of food, fuel, and humanitarian aid in Palestinian territory.

Tensions continue to rise as Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. attempt to mediate a new ceasefire.