In brief
In a rapid escalation of hostilities, Israel has launched airstrikes across Gaza in retaliation for what it characterizes as breaches of a ceasefire agreement by Hamas. The strikes reportedly resulted in multiple casualties, including the deaths of at least nine Palestinians. Accusations of Hamas's unresponsiveness to ceasefire commitments and military attacks on Israeli forces have triggered this new wave of violence, raising concerns over the stability of the fragile ceasefire brokered by international mediators.
Israel has carried out air strikes in Gaza, in response to what Israeli officials said were violations of a US-brokered ceasefire agreement.
Defence Minister Israel Katz accused Hamas of attacking Israeli soldiers in Gaza and breaching the terms on returning the bodies of deceased hostages.
The Palestinian armed group claimed it had no connection to the attack and insisted it was committed to the ceasefire deal.
First responders in Gaza said at least nine Palestinians were killed in a wave of Israeli strikes. Reports indicate that four people were killed in the Sabra neighbourhood of Gaza City, including three women.
Despite the renewed violence, US Vice-President JD Vance expressed confidence that the ceasefire was still holding, although acknowledging potential skirmishes. Israeli media reported that troops in Rafah came under fire, prompting the military to respond with strikes across various locations, including Gaza City.
Prime Minister Netanyahu ordered the military's action in response to alleged provocations and claimed Hamas had crossed a bright red line. He warned that Hamas would face severe consequences for their alleged attacks on Israeli forces.
In a related statement, Hamas denied involvement in the violence and condemned the Israeli airstrikes as violations of the ceasefire agreement, asserting that it had not attacked Israeli troops.
This incident has significant implications for the ongoing conflict and the viability of the ceasefire, which had been intended to facilitate humanitarian considerations and the return of hostages.
The international community, including the ICRC, condemned the ongoing violence and stressed the importance of adhering to ceasefire agreements.
The situation continues to evolve, with both sides accusing the other of violations, complicating efforts for lasting peace.
