Israel Launches Massive Gaza Airstrike Amid Ceasefire Breakdown \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ Israel launched its largest airstrikes on Gaza since January, targeting Hamas positions. The strikes follow stalled ceasefire negotiations, killing at least 69 Palestinians. The White House confirmed it was consulted before the attacks began.
Israel Gaza Airstrikes Quick Looks
- Israel launched heavy airstrikes across Gaza early Tuesday.
- Prime Minister Netanyahu ordered strikes after stalled ceasefire talks.
- At least 69 Palestinians have been killed in the attacks.
- Hamas claims ceasefire breaches put hostage negotiations at risk.
- The White House confirmed prior consultation with Israel.
- Trump administration reiterates threats against Hamas, Houthis, and Iran.
- AP sues three administration officials over alleged press freedom violations.
Deep Look
In the early hours of Tuesday morning, Israel launched its most intense aerial bombardment on the Gaza Strip since the fragile ceasefire took effect in January. According to Israeli officials, the strikes were aimed at Hamas military facilities and infrastructure following months of stalled negotiations to prolong the ceasefire agreement. The airstrikes have resulted in significant destruction and the reported deaths of at least 69 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly addressed the nation, stating that the decision to order the strikes was driven by frustration over the lack of progress in diplomatic discussions with Hamas. “Israel cannot and will not tolerate continued threats to its security,” Netanyahu said in a televised address. “We have made every effort to negotiate in good faith. When those efforts are met with intransigence and hostility, we must act.”
However, whether this large-scale operation is intended as a pressure tactic or a full resumption of hostilities remains uncertain. Observers noted that the scope and intensity of the assault — hitting targets across Gaza, including in densely populated areas — suggest that it could mark the beginning of a broader military campaign.
The reaction from Hamas was swift and severe. In a statement released shortly after the attacks, the group condemned Israel’s actions as a blatant breach of the ceasefire agreement. Hamas warned that these strikes jeopardize not only the fragile peace but also the ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages. The militant organization has repeatedly used hostages as leverage in ceasefire and prisoner-exchange negotiations, and the latest Israeli offensive could complicate those efforts further.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza, already dire after years of conflict and blockades, has grown more critical following the strikes. Emergency services reported significant damage to residential buildings, schools, and hospitals. Human rights organizations called for immediate international intervention, citing concerns over the rising civilian death toll and the targeting of non-military infrastructure.
Meanwhile, in Washington, the White House confirmed that Israel had consulted with the U.S. administration before launching its attacks. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, speaking on Fox News on Monday night, emphasized that the administration supports Israel’s right to defend itself. “As President Trump has made it clear, Hamas, the Houthis, Iran, and all those who seek to terrorize Israel and the United States will pay a price,” Leavitt said. “All hell will break loose.”
Leavitt’s comments come at a delicate time, as she and two other senior administration officials are currently facing a lawsuit from The Associated Press. The lawsuit alleges that the officials retaliated against the AP for editorial choices they disagreed with — specifically, the refusal to follow an executive order that mandates referring to the Gulf of Mexico as the ‘Gulf of America.’ The AP claims this directive infringes on its editorial independence and violates constitutional protections. The White House, for its part, maintains that the order reflects national security interests and should be respected by all U.S.-based media outlets.
The escalation of violence in Gaza has sent ripples through the international community. European Union leaders and United Nations officials have issued statements urging both sides to exercise restraint and return to the negotiating table. The fear is that without immediate diplomatic intervention, the region could slide back into a prolonged and devastating conflict, with far-reaching consequences for stability in the Middle East.
Regional analysts have also pointed out that Israel’s recent strikes could have broader geopolitical implications. Iran, frequently cited by both Israel and the U.S. as a supporter of Hamas, has condemned the Israeli action and warned of potential retaliation. Tensions in the region are further exacerbated by ongoing conflicts in Lebanon and Yemen, where Iranian-backed groups are also active.
As the world watches the situation in Gaza deteriorate, the fate of the hostages remains a pressing concern. Negotiations over their release had been delicately progressing in recent months, with third-party mediation reportedly taking place through Egypt and Qatar. With the current escalation, those efforts are now in jeopardy, potentially closing the door on peaceful resolutions for months or even years.
The question on everyone’s mind remains whether this wave of violence is an isolated incident or the beginning of a renewed war. While Netanyahu has not confirmed future actions, military sources in Israel indicated that additional operations could follow if Hamas retaliates. Meanwhile, diplomatic channels remain open but increasingly strained, with both sides showing little willingness to compromise.
In the coming days, all eyes will be on Gaza as the region stands at yet another dangerous crossroads. The world awaits Israel’s next move, Hamas’s response, and whether international powers can intervene in time to prevent further escalation.
Israel Launches Massive Gaza Israel Launches Massive Gaza
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