At least 104 Palestinians were killed in a wave of Israeli strikes in Gaza on Tuesday night, the territory's Hamas-run health ministry reports.
The Israeli military stated it struck 'dozens of terror targets and terrorists' in response to violations by Hamas of the US-brokered ceasefire deal.
Israel's Defense Minister accused Hamas of attacking an Israeli soldier in Gaza, claiming it breached agreements regarding the return of deceased hostages. However, Hamas denied any connection to the attack and accused Israel of undermining the ceasefire.
US President Donald Trump stated that while Israel should respond to threats, nothing would jeopardize the ceasefire.
The airstrikes reportedly affected residential areas, schools, and refugee camps across Gaza, including Nuseirat, Bureij, and Khan Younis. The aftermath saw widespread destruction, with many reports of civilians, including women and children, caught in the violence.
Gaza’s health ministry noted that among the fatalities were 46 children and 20 women, raising alarm among humanitarian organizations and leading to urgent calls for peace. Eyewitnesses cited witnessing chaotic scenes, describing 'pillars of fire and smoke' amidst the bombings.
In a stark reminder of the human toll, families mourned their dead, questioning the continuation of peace amidst such violence. One grieving relative expressed despair, stating: 'What kind of world is this? Is this the ceasefire?'
The Israeli Defense Forces announced on Wednesday its intention to uphold the ceasefire despite the recent escalation, emphasizing a determination to respond firmly to any violations. Meanwhile, the situation continues to draw global concern for the humanitarian implications of ongoing conflict in Gaza.
