Israel Launches Extensive Strikes on Gaza as Ceasefire Talks Collapse

Tags: Israel, Gaza, Hamas, ceasefire, airstrikes, Middle East conflict

Widespread Strikes on Hamas Targets

The Israeli military has launched extensive airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, targeting sites linked to Hamas. In a statement, the Israeli army confirmed that it was “conducting extensive strikes on terror targets belonging to the Hamas terrorist organisation,” with further details to follow.

Netanyahu: Stronger Military Action Against Hamas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the military to take “strong action” in response to Hamas’ refusal to release hostages and its rejection of all ceasefire proposals. The prime minister’s office stated that Israel would now “act against Hamas with increasing military strength.”

Hamas Accuses Israel of Ending Ceasefire

A senior Hamas official accused Israel of unilaterally ending the ceasefire agreement. Hamas also claimed that Netanyahu’s actions were putting hostages in Gaza at risk.

Civilian Casualties and Damage Reported

According to the Palestinian civil emergency service, at least 35 airstrikes hit Gaza, with reports of at least 40 deaths, including children, and 150 wounded. Strikes targeted three houses in Deir Al-Balah, a building in Gaza City, and sites in Khan Younis and Rafah, according to medics and eyewitnesses.

Mediation Efforts Falter

The escalation comes amid stalled negotiations between Israel and Hamas regarding the continuation of the three-phase ceasefire that began in January. Arab mediators, backed by the United States, have struggled to bridge differences between the two sides despite ongoing talks over the past two weeks.