Israel Intensifies Gaza Offensive as Ceasefire Efforts Stall

Over 700 Palestinians have been killed in the past week, with Israel targeting Hamas leaders and threatening annexation unless hostages are released.

Israeli airstrikes and ground operations in Gaza have resumed, killing over 700 Palestinians, including women, children, and two journalists, since the ceasefire collapsed on March 18.
Israel has targeted and killed multiple senior Hamas leaders, including Ismail Barhoum and Salah Bardawil, in airstrikes aimed at dismantling the group's leadership and infrastructure.
Defense Minister Israel Katz has threatened to annex parts of Gaza unless Hamas releases the remaining hostages, further escalating tensions.
Egypt has proposed a new ceasefire plan involving phased hostage releases and humanitarian aid, but Israel has not yet responded to the proposal.
The United Nations has reduced its international staff presence in Gaza due to safety concerns, as the humanitarian crisis deepens with shortages of food, medicine, and aid.