Tensions in the Middle East have escalated again as Israel launched a fresh wave of airstrikes on Gaza overnight, resulting in the deaths of at least 250 Palestinians, according to reports from Gaza’s health authorities. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the military operation, stating that it was aimed at achieving the objectives set by Israel’s leadership, particularly the release of hostages still held by Hamas.
Israel’s Justification for the Strikes
In a statement, Netanyahu’s office said the attack was approved in coordination with Defense Minister Israel Katz after Hamas refused to release Israeli hostages despite mediation efforts led by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. The Israeli government warned that it would intensify military action against Hamas in response to the stalled negotiations.
“Israel will, from now on, act against Hamas with increasing military strength,” the prime minister’s office declared.
Hamas Responds, Calls for Global Intervention
Hamas condemned the strikes as a “blatant violation of all international and humanitarian conventions.” The group’s media office in Gaza urged the international community to intervene, accusing Israel of deliberately restricting humanitarian aid, fuel, and electricity in the besieged territory.
Palestinian health officials claimed that many of those killed were children, while the Israeli military stated that its strikes were targeting Hamas-linked sites, which it described as “terror infrastructure.” Independent verification of casualty numbers has been difficult due to Israel’s restrictions on foreign journalists entering Gaza.
Concerns Over Hostages Still Held in Gaza
The Israeli military’s decision to resume full-scale airstrikes has sparked controversy within Israel itself. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, an organization advocating for the safe return of Israelis taken captive by Hamas, criticized the government’s actions.
“The government has chosen to abandon the hostages,”
the group said in a statement, arguing that the escalation could endanger both the remaining captives and Israeli soldiers involved in the operation.
It is estimated that 59 hostages remain in Hamas captivity following the October 7, 2023, attack, in which militants crossed into southern Israel and abducted 251 people. Israeli authorities believe not all of the remaining hostages are still alive.
What’s Next?
The renewed violence in Gaza has raised international concerns, with humanitarian groups warning of worsening conditions for civilians. The United Nations and multiple foreign governments have urged both sides to de-escalate, but with Israel vowing to continue its strikes and Hamas remaining defiant, a resolution remains uncertain.
