Israel Strikes in Gaza Kill at Least 200, Palestinian Authorities Say

At least 200 people were killed in Gaza after Israeli airstrikes struck multiple locations early Tuesday, according to Palestinian health authorities. The strikes come after weeks of negotiations to extend a ceasefire, which ended in January.

Background: The Fragile Ceasefire

The ceasefire agreement, brokered by Qatar and Egypt in late January, had temporarily halted hostilities following months of intense fighting. However, recent tensions over border security, rocket attacks, and settlement expansions contributed to its breakdown.

Israel has accused Hamas of stockpiling weapons and preparing for further attacks, while Hamas claims that Israel has been conducting raids in the West Bank and restricting humanitarian aid.

Escalation of Conflict

According to witnesses, explosions were heard across the Gaza Strip as Israeli warplanes targeted various locations, including residential buildings, suspected weapons depots, and Hamas command centers. The Israeli military later confirmed that its campaign aimed to neutralize “terrorist infrastructure.”

A resident in Gaza City described the strikes as “relentless,” stating that “It felt like the whole city was shaking. No one knows where to run anymore.”

The Palestinian Red Crescent reported that hospitals are struggling to cope with the number of casualties, with medical supplies running critically low.

Hamas Responds

Shortly after the strikes, Hamas issued a statement condemning Israel for what it described as a “clear violation of the ceasefire agreement.”

“The enemy has broken its word once again. Our resistance will continue until we achieve full liberation,” a Hamas spokesperson said.

Although no immediate retaliation was reported, Hamas has warned that its response could involve rocket attacks on Israeli cities.

Israel’s Justification

The Israeli government defended the strikes, stating that they were in response to Hamas’ continued threats and refusal to disarm. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel will “take every necessary action to ensure national security.”

“Hamas cannot be allowed to exploit ceasefires as an opportunity to regroup and rearm,” Netanyahu said.

Global Reactions

The renewed violence has drawn reactions from world leaders, with the United Nations urging restraint from both sides.

U.S. President Joe Biden expressed concern, calling on both Israel and Hamas to de-escalate tensions. “There must be a path to peace. Both sides need to come to the table,” Biden said during a press briefing.

The European Union also condemned the violence, with EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell stating, “The loss of civilian lives is unacceptable, and we urge both parties to prioritize peace negotiations.”

Impact on Civilians

As usual, it is the civilians who bear the brunt of the conflict. Families in Gaza have been forced to flee their homes, seeking shelter in schools and makeshift camps. Meanwhile, Israel has reinforced its Iron Dome defense system in anticipation of potential retaliatory rocket fire.

Humanitarian organizations have warned that Gaza’s infrastructure is on the brink of collapse, with shortages of food, water, and medical supplies worsening the situation.

What’s Next?

The latest strikes mark a dangerous turning point in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Diplomatic efforts will likely intensify in the coming days, but with both sides showing no signs of backing down, the risk of a prolonged military campaign remains high.

International mediators, including Egypt and Qatar, are reportedly working behind the scenes to re-establish a ceasefire, though the likelihood of success is uncertain.

For the people of Gaza, the fear of further strikes looms large, while in Israel, citizens remain on high alert for potential retaliatory attacks.

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