Fresh Wave of Violence as Ceasefire Breaks Down
The conflict in Gaza has escalated once again after Israel expanded its ground operations following the collapse of a ceasefire that had largely held since January. On Thursday, Israeli airstrikes reportedly killed at least 70 Palestinians and left many injured, according to Gaza health officials.
Israel Expands Ground Offensive
The Israeli military confirmed that its forces have resumed operations in central and southern Gaza, targeting key Hamas strongholds. Officials stated that the strikes have eliminated several Hamas leaders and destroyed critical infrastructure. Over the past few days, hundreds of Palestinians have reportedly been killed, making this one of the deadliest periods since the war began in October 2023.
Israel’s forces have also expanded control over the Netzarim Corridor, a strategic route that effectively divides Gaza. The military described its actions as a “focused maneuver” aimed at creating a partial buffer zone between northern and southern Gaza.
Hamas Responds to Israeli Incursion
Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, condemned the ground operation, calling it a “new and dangerous violation” of the ceasefire agreement. The group urged international mediators to intervene but has yet to issue a direct threat of retaliation.
Meanwhile, efforts to restore peace remain at an impasse. Hamas officials stated that diplomatic mediators have intensified negotiations between the two sides but acknowledged that “no breakthrough has yet been made.”
Palestinians Barred from Entering Northern Gaza
As part of its renewed military strategy, Israel has reinstated strict movement restrictions, blocking Palestinians from traveling north from the southern regions of Gaza. The Israeli military announced that only passage to the south will be allowed along Gaza’s coastal road, reinforcing a blockade that had been eased during the ceasefire.
Rising Casualties and a War-Torn Gaza
Since Tuesday, at least 510 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli airstrikes, more than half of them women and children, according to Gaza health authorities. The total death toll in Gaza has now surpassed 49,000 since the war began.
The conflict, which erupted on October 7, 2023, after Hamas militants launched a deadly attack on Israeli communities, has devastated the region. The initial assault left 1,200 Israelis dead and led to over 250 hostages being taken, sparking a prolonged and destructive war.
What Comes Next?
With Israel escalating its ground campaign and Hamas condemning the attacks, the possibility of a renewed ceasefire seems uncertain. As diplomatic efforts continue, both sides appear to be bracing for further violence, leaving civilians trapped in an increasingly dire humanitarian crisis.