Over 400 Palestinians, including women and children, have reportedly been killed in a wave of Israeli airstrikes across Gaza early Tuesday, reigniting the long-running conflict in the region.
The attacks shattered a fragile ceasefire that had been in place since January, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating that the strikes were launched after Hamas rejected changes to the truce agreement.
He described the military operation as “open-ended,” signaling an escalation that could lead to further incursions.
Israeli forces have ordered residents to evacuate areas in eastern Gaza, including Beit Hanoun and surrounding communities, as speculation grows over the possibility of renewed ground operations.
Netanyahu’s office vowed that Israel would intensify its military action against Hamas in the coming days.
The offensive, coming during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, has sparked concerns over the humanitarian toll, adding to the tens of thousands of Palestinian casualties and widespread destruction already inflicted on Gaza.
The latest escalation has also raised fears for the safety of Israeli hostages still held by Hamas.
A senior Hamas figure, Izzat al-Risheq, condemned Netanyahu’s decision, calling it a “death sentence” for the remaining captives and accusing the Israeli leader of using the war to maintain his political grip.
Hamas reported that at least four of its senior officials were killed in the strikes, while the Israeli government has received backing from its allies, including the United States, which expressed support for the military action.
