Israeli fighter jets launched a series of airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, breaking a fragile ceasefire that had been mostly in effect since January. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attributed the military actions to Hamas’s refusal to release Israeli hostages and its rejection of a U.S. proposal for further negotiations. Since the ceasefire began, reports indicate that over 140 people have been killed in Gaza as Israeli forces have targeted perceived threats from Hamas.
The ceasefire agreement had a phased approach, where Hamas initially released 33 hostages and Israel freed approximately 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. However, when negotiations for subsequent phases stalled, Israel halted aid to Gaza, leading to escalating tensions. U.S. efforts to mediate a new proposal that would extend the ceasefire were met with resistance from both sides, particularly due to differing views on the hostages’ release and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.
As Israeli forces prepare for potential further military operations, Netanyahu faces political pressures to achieve military objectives and regain public support amid ongoing domestic crises. Meanwhile, Hamas has called for an end to Israeli military actions but remains resistant to new negotiations without prior commitments from Israel. The situation is evolving, indicating a potential return to intense conflict in the region.
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