Israel has resumed widespread military attacks across Gaza, officially ending the fragile ceasefire agreement that had been in place since January 19, 2025. The escalation has significantly intensified violence in the region.
The airstrikes, which began Tuesday morning, have resulted in over 400 fatalities and more than 660 injuries, according to Palestinian authorities. The Israeli military claims its operations are targeting what it describes as “terrorist sites” linked to Hamas, citing the group’s refusal to release hostages and extend the ceasefire as key reasons for the renewed assault.
Rising Death Toll and Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The Palestinian Ministry of Health reports at least 404 deaths and 562 injuries, with many civilians still trapped under rubble. Gaza’s healthcare system is in critical condition, with only 13 out of 38 hospitals remaining operational.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz approved the attacks, emphasizing that Israel would intensify military action against Hamas. Reports indicate that the U.S. was consulted before launching the latest strikes.
The United Nations and other international organizations have strongly condemned the renewed violence, urging an immediate reinstatement of the ceasefire. Hamas has accused Israel of violating the agreement and putting hostages in further danger.
Worsening Humanitarian Conditions
The Gaza Strip is facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis due to Israeli-imposed restrictions on aid, water, and fuel, exacerbating food shortages and the spread of disease. More than 2.3 million Palestinians remain trapped in dire conditions.
Despite ongoing international mediation efforts by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S., the ceasefire negotiations have failed to yield results. The latest Israeli airstrikes mark the most extensive attacks since January 19, when the temporary truce first came into effect.
Regional and International Reactions
Israel claims that 59 hostages are still held in Gaza, with 24 believed to be alive. A Hamas-led delegation has accused Israel of deliberately abandoning hostages and using military action as a political tool.
The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an immediate de-escalation, while the European Union, Arab League, and several nations are pressing for a halt to the violence.
As fighting intensifies, concerns grow over a potentially wider regional conflict, with increasing tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border involving Hezbollah.
With Gaza’s civilian death toll rising and the region on the brink of further escalation, calls for renewed diplomacy are growing, though peace remains elusive.