Israeli Warplanes Strike Gaza, Ending Ceasefire with Hamas
Israeli warplanes bombed Gaza overnight, bringing an end to the Israel-Hamas ceasefire after two months. Israeli leaders announced that they ordered the strikes after Hamas refused to agree to frameworks for a hostage deal proposed by Israel and the United States.
Hamas accused Israel of unilaterally breaking the ceasefire. The airstrikes have plunged the region back into war following a period of tense calm during which Hamas released dozens of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
The ceasefire began in January with the intention of proceeding to a second stage where Israel would complete its withdrawal in exchange for the remaining hostages. However, negotiations faltered, with Israel refusing to agree to leave Hamas in power and Hamas rejecting U.S.-endorsed proposals.
Israel is now targeting Hamas fighters, fortifications, and weapons stores in Gaza to achieve the objectives of the war, including the release of all hostages. Netanyahu announced that Israel would act against Hamas with increasing military strength.
The renewed strikes come during Ramadan and ahead of Passover. They also coincide with Netanyahu’s controversial decision to fire the head of the Shin Bet intelligence service and facing investigations for illicit dealings with Qatar.
Major protests are planned in Israel in the coming days over Netanyahu’s actions.