Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that the renewed military actions in Gaza are just the start, vowing to continue until Hamas is dismantled and all hostages are released. This statement follows a series of airstrikes that have resulted in hundreds of casualties, marking a significant escalation in the conflict.
In a televised address, Netanyahu emphasized that any future ceasefire discussions would occur amidst ongoing military operations. This address came after Israeli forces launched attacks that resulted in over 400 deaths in Gaza, making it the deadliest day since the conflict began in 2023.
Netanyahu assured the public that Hamas has already experienced the might of Israel's military response and warned that this is merely the beginning. Israel's defense minister also suggested that the conflict could extend for weeks or even months, indicating a shift in strategy against Hamas.
The Israeli military has issued evacuation orders for parts of northern and eastern Gaza, hinting at potential ground operations. Palestinian health officials reported 404 fatalities from the strikes, with over 600 injured. The Israeli military stated that their targets included Hamas leaders and officials. The bombardment continued throughout the day and into the night.
Humanitarian workers in Gaza reported that many residents are fleeing in response to the evacuation orders, with one official describing the population as physically and mentally exhausted. In the United States, a White House representative confirmed that Israel had consulted with the U.S. before proceeding with the strikes.
The attacks have affected areas in northern Gaza and central cities like Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis. In Rafah, a single strike reportedly killed 17 family members, including children. Hospitals are overwhelmed, with patients lying on floors and medical staff struggling to manage the influx of casualties.
The strikes have claimed the lives of senior Hamas figures, including top political leaders and ministers, along with numerous civilians. An Israeli military spokesperson stated that the strikes were a response to Hamas's plans for further attacks and their refusal to release hostages, violating a previous ceasefire agreement.
Netanyahu's office mentioned that Hamas had turned down proposals for extending the ceasefire, which were put forward by Donald Trump's Middle East envoy. Hamas, on the other hand, claims that hostage releases were only planned for a second phase of the ceasefire, which Israel has not honored.
The initial ceasefire agreement in January involved the exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners. The proposed second phase included a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and the release of all hostages. However, Israel, with U.S. backing, has been pushing for the return of all hostages in exchange for further prisoner releases and a temporary truce.
Recently, Israel has restricted aid to Gaza and cut off electricity to pressure Hamas. A Hamas official criticized the international community, urging it to prevent further aggression against Gaza's civilians.
The strikes occur amidst political turmoil in Israel, with Netanyahu announcing plans to dismiss the head of the Shin Bet security service, sparking accusations of authoritarianism and plans for protests. Thousands protested in Tel Aviv against Netanyahu's decision, which also includes the potential firing of the attorney general, a critic of the prime minister.
The conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, has left much of Gaza in ruins, with significant casualties and widespread destruction. The Israeli response to initial attacks by Hamas has resulted in over 48,000 deaths and severe damage to infrastructure, displacing a large portion of the population.