Israel Launches Extensive Airstrikes on Hamas Amid Stalled Ceasefire Negotiations

Synopsis

Israel conducted significant airstrikes targeting Hamas in the Gaza Strip, following failed truce negotiations. The military actions resulted in numerous casualties and reaffirmed Israel's commitment to strong military responses against Hamas as hostages remain unreturned.

Key Takeaways

Israel launched extensive airstrikes on Hamas targets.
At least 66 casualties reported in Gaza.
Ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas have collapsed.
Prime Minister Netanyahu justified military actions based on hostage situations.
Escalation follows breakdown of truce discussions.

Jerusalem, March 18 (NationPress) Israel initiated a series of intensive airstrikes targeting Hamas positions throughout the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, representing the first significant military engagement since the ceasefire commenced on January 19.

This renewed offensive follows the breakdown of negotiations for a truce between Israel and Hamas.

Medical officials based in Gaza report that at least 66 individuals have lost their lives, with over 150 others injured due to multiple strikes in northern Gaza, Deir al-Balah, Khan Younis, Rafah, and Gaza City.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the operations, stating they were executed in collaboration with the Israeli Security Agency (ISA).

"In accordance with the political echelon, the IDF and ISA are currently engaging in extensive strikes against terror targets associated with the Hamas terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip," the Israeli military announced on X.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office later defended the military action, citing Hamas's ongoing refusal to release hostages, as well as its dismissal of proposals from US Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff and other mediators.

"Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz have ordered the IDF to take decisive action against the Hamas terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip," the statement indicated.

Netanyahu's office further asserted that the IDF is targeting positions of the Hamas terrorist organization across the Gaza Strip "to fulfill the objectives of the war as outlined by the political echelon, including securing the release of all our hostages, both living and deceased."

"Israel will now act against Hamas with escalating military might. The operational plan was presented by the IDF over the weekend and received approval from the political leadership," the announcement added.

This latest escalation occurs as truce discussions stalled over disagreements concerning the terms of the ceasefire's next phase.

Israel aimed to extend the initial phase of the three-stage agreement, while Hamas insisted on moving to the second phase, scheduled to commence on March 2, which would involve additional hostage releases.

During the first phase of the ceasefire, Hamas released 33 Israeli hostages and five Thai nationals in exchange for approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. However, around 59 hostages remain in Hamas's custody.

Last week, Hamas indicated a willingness to release American-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander along with the remains of four hostages, contingent on Israel's prompt agreement to discuss the next phase of the deal. Israel rejected this proposal, accusing Hamas of engaging in "psychological warfare" against the families of those held captive.

The conflict in Gaza ignited on October 7, 2023, following Hamas's cross-border attack into southern Israel, which resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities, predominantly among civilians, and the capture of 251 hostages.

Since then, Israel has undertaken a relentless military campaign against Hamas.