More than 400 people have been killed in Gaza as Israeli airstrikes resumed following the collapse of ceasefire talks, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
The Israeli military described the strikes as targeting “terror sites” across Gaza, in what has been the most intense bombardment since the ceasefire began on 19 January.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office defended the renewed military action, stating that Israel would “act against Hamas with increasing military strength” due to Hamas’s “repeated refusal to release our hostages.”
The Israeli government has accused Hamas of rejecting multiple proposals aimed at extending the ceasefire.
Hamas, in turn, has condemned the strikes, claiming they target “defenseless civilians.” The group also called on mediators to hold Israel “fully responsible” for “violating and overturning” the truce.
Israeli officials say that 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with up to 24 believed to be alive.
A group representing hostage families has criticised the Israeli government, alleging that it has “chosen to give up the hostages” by resuming airstrikes instead of pursuing further negotiations.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has not commented on the renewed strikes. However, National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes stated that Hamas “chose war” by refusing to release the hostages.
The escalation raises fears of further casualties and devastation in Gaza, as international efforts to broker a renewed ceasefire appear to have stalled.
Chioma Kalu
Follow us on:
