Israel has intensified its military operations in Gaza, resulting in over 400 fatalities, according to the Health Ministry in the Hamas-controlled region. This escalation follows a breakdown in negotiations over hostage releases, ending a period of relative calm facilitated by a ceasefire brokered by the U.S. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced that the military is targeting Hamas across Gaza to achieve specific war objectives, including the release of hostages.
The Gaza Health Ministry reported at least 404 deaths by Tuesday afternoon due to the renewed strikes. Videos from the area depict hospitals overwhelmed with casualties. Israel cited Hamas' refusal to release hostages and rejection of U.S. and mediator proposals as reasons for resuming attacks. Defense Minister Israel Katz warned of severe military action if hostages are not released.
U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff had previously cautioned Hamas about the consequences of not releasing hostages. The White House confirmed that the Trump administration was informed about Israel's actions. The National Security Council criticized Hamas for choosing conflict over extending the ceasefire.
Families of Israeli hostages criticized Netanyahu's decision to resume fighting, fearing it endangers the captives. They accused the government of abandoning efforts to secure their release and organized protests against the renewed military actions.
The United Nations expressed horror at the airstrikes, urging respect for the ceasefire and the release of hostages. Egypt, a key player in brokering the ceasefire, condemned Israel's actions as a violation of the agreement, warning of regional instability.
Hamas denounced the attacks, holding Israel accountable for the consequences and accusing it of endangering hostages. They also criticized U.S. involvement, claiming it supports Israeli actions.
The conflict reignited during Ramadan after a nearly two-month ceasefire that had paused a 17-month war. The ceasefire initially led to the release of some hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. However, disagreements over the next phase of the ceasefire, which aimed to release remaining hostages and end the conflict, led to the current escalation.
Israel had previously halted aid to Gaza to pressure Hamas into accepting a U.S.-drafted proposal for extending the ceasefire. This proposal demanded the immediate release of half the remaining hostages, altering the original terms. Hamas had agreed to release one American-Israeli hostage and the bodies of four others, but Israel doubted the sincerity of this offer.
The conflict began with a Hamas attack in October 2023, which resulted in significant casualties and hostages. Israel's military response has led to widespread destruction and displacement in Gaza. Despite the ceasefire, Israeli forces remained in Gaza, citing security concerns. Recent strikes have resulted in additional casualties.