Gaza: Defying the ceasefire agreement, Israeli forces have launched one of the most intense offensives in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of more than 300 people. The Israeli military has ordered the evacuation of the northern Gaza Strip, signaling a renewed push to dismantle Hamas completely.
The ongoing conflict escalated sharply as Israel initiated massive airstrikes, marking the most significant assault on Gaza since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began on January 19. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified the offensive, stating that the strikes were a response to stalled ceasefire negotiations.
“The discussions on extending the ceasefire were not progressing, leaving us with no choice but to act,” Netanyahu said.
Hamas, in turn, condemned the attacks, accusing Israel of violating the truce without provocation. Hamas termed the Israeli actions as a breach of the ceasefire and an aggressive escalation that threatens regional stability.
Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant ordered the closure of the Rafah Crossing, which connects Gaza to Egypt, further intensifying the humanitarian crisis in the region. The closure aims to restrict the movement of medical supplies and humanitarian aid, particularly affecting access to treatment for the injured.
This move follows Israel’s earlier blockade of relief convoys carrying essential items such as food, oil, and medicine into Gaza. The first phase of the ceasefire agreement ended on March 1, after which Israel resumed its military operations.
Under the initial phase of the truce, Hamas released 33 hostages, while Israel freed around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Talks for the second phase of the ceasefire — which would involve the release of approximately 60 additional hostages — have not yet commenced.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have stated that the current strikes are aimed at targeting Hamas militants and infrastructure, reiterating that the operations are essential for Israel’s security. However, the high civilian death toll and the forced displacement of residents from northern Gaza have raised alarms internationally, with calls for restraint and renewed dialogue.
As the conflict enters a new and dangerous phase, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with urgent appeals for aid and diplomacy gaining momentum amid fears of further escalation.
