More than 400 people have been killed in Gaza as Israeli airstrikes intensified following the breakdown of ceasefire negotiations, the Hamas-run health ministry has reported.
The Israeli military described the strikes as targeting “terror sites” across Gaza, marking the most intense bombardment since the ceasefire began on January 19.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office defended the renewed military action, stating that Israel would “act against Hamas with increasing military strength” due to the group’s “repeated refusal to release our hostages.” Israeli officials accused Hamas of rejecting multiple ceasefire extension proposals.
Hamas condemned the strikes, alleging they targeted “defenseless civilians,” and called on mediators to hold Israel “fully responsible” for “violating and overturning” the truce.
According to Israeli officials, 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with up to 24 believed to be alive.
A group representing the families of the hostages has criticized the Israeli government, accusing it of abandoning the captives by resuming military action instead of pursuing further negotiations.
The escalation has raised concerns over further casualties and destruction in Gaza, as international efforts to restore the ceasefire remain stalled.
