Israeli Airstrikes in Gaza Escalate as Ceasefire Strains Further

Israel's military justifies the strikes as targeting combatants, while Hamas condemns them as violations of the January truce.

Israeli forces conducted extensive airstrikes in Gaza, marking the most significant military action since the January 19, 2025 ceasefire agreement.
The Israeli military stated the strikes targeted individuals planting explosives and operating drones, including a specific strike in central Gaza and another in Rafah.
Hamas has condemned the airstrikes, describing them as a 'flagrant violation' of the ceasefire and accusing Israel of undermining the truce.
A recent airstrike in Beit Lahia resulted in nine deaths, including four journalists, raising concerns about civilian casualties.
The escalation is linked to stalled hostage negotiations, with Israel citing Hamas's refusal to release hostages as justification for the intensified strikes.