Israeli airstrikes have hit multiple targets across Gaza, from Gaza City in the north to Khan Younis in the south, killing at least 330 people, according to the Gaza health ministry.
The escalation follows the collapse of a two-month ceasefire, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office declaring that Israel will now act against Hamas with “increasing military strength.”
The health ministry reported that most of the casualties were women and children, with hundreds more wounded, many in critical condition.
Gaza’s civil defence agency stated that the strikes targeted residential areas, schools, and shelters for displaced people.
Hospitals, already severely damaged after 15 months of Israeli attacks, have been overwhelmed with casualties.
The Israeli military confirmed that its bombardment, which includes both air and ground operations, was aimed at Hamas commanders and infrastructure. Israeli officials stated that the strikes were necessary after failed efforts to extend the ceasefire, as opposed to moving to phase 2 as earlier agreed during negotiations.
The situation has worsened humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where more than 48,000 people, mostly civilian women and children, have been killed since the war began in October 2023.
Hamas has accused Israel of violating the ceasefire and is in talks with mediators to “curb the aggression.” Meanwhile, Israel has urged residents in several areas to evacuate immediately.
The renewed fighting comes after weeks of stalled negotiations. Israel had sought the release of 59 remaining hostages in Gaza in exchange for a longer ceasefire, while Hamas insisted on a full withdrawal of Israeli forces.
Both sides have blamed each other for the breakdown of the truce.
