Gaza Ceasefire Collapses as Israel Launches Fatal Strikes, Halts Aid

A fragile ceasefire in Gaza has shattered. Israeli forces launched a series of strikes on Sunday, killing at least 33 people according to local authorities. The attacks targeted Hamas infrastructure across the Gaza Strip. This escalation occurred less than ten days after the truce began.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) stated the operation was a response to a “blatant violation” of the agreement. Following the strikes, Israel suspended all humanitarian aid shipments into Gaza. A security official confirmed the aid halt to AFP.

IDF Cites Immediate Threat to Justify Military Action

The military action began after an anti-tank missile and gunfire were directed at IDF troops. The soldiers were operating in the Rafah area. The IDF said its forces were there to dismantle terrorist infrastructure as part of the ceasefire terms.

In a separate incident, the IDF claimed to have identified armed terrorists approaching its forces in Beit Lahia. The military said it struck the group in response. Officials vowed to continue operations to eliminate any immediate threats to their troops.

Broader Regional Implications and Stalled Peace Efforts

This violence follows a stark warning from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. On Saturday, he said the war would only end with Hamas’s disarmament and the demilitarization of Gaza. This statement set a firm precondition for any lasting peace.

The United States had also reported “credible information” about a planned Hamas attack. This intelligence, revealed on Saturday, heightened regional tensions. Hamas officials denied the American assessment, creating a backdrop of mutual accusation.

The resumption of hostilities marks a severe setback for diplomatic efforts. The collapsed Gaza ceasefire now plunges the region back into a familiar cycle of violence and retaliation, with civilians once again bearing the heaviest cost.

Info at your fingertips

What triggered the latest Israeli strikes in Gaza?

The IDF stated it responded to an anti-tank missile and gunfire aimed at its troops. It also cited armed terrorists approaching its forces as a direct trigger for the military action.

How many casualties resulted from the Sunday strikes?

Gaza’s local authorities reported at least 33 people were killed. The strikes hit various locations across the Gaza Strip.

What is the status of humanitarian aid into Gaza now?

Israel has suspended all aid shipments. A security official said the halt will continue until further notice following the ceasefire violation.

What was the US role in the events leading up to this?

The US reported having “credible information” that Hamas was planning an attack. This statement was issued just one day before the truce collapsed.

What are the long-term conditions for ending the war?

Prime Minister Netanyahu stated the war ends only when Hamas is disarmed. He also demands the complete demilitarization of the Gaza territory.

Trusted Sources

Agence France-Presse (AFP), Reuters