Israel resumes Gaza airstrikes killing over 200 in deadliest attack since ceasefire

In the most intense assault since the ceasefire began two months ago, Israeli airstrikes pounded the Gaza Strip on March 18, killing at least 200 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s health ministry. The strikes come amid a breakdown in truce negotiations, marking a major escalation in the ongoing conflict.

The Israeli military confirmed the operation, stating that it was targeting Hamas positions. “In accordance with the political echelon, the IDF and ISA are currently conducting extensive strikes on terror targets belonging to the Hamas terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip,” the army announced on X.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office blamed Hamas for the renewed violence, accusing the group of rejecting multiple ceasefire proposals. “Israel will, from now on, act against Hamas with increasing military strength,” the government statement said.

Hostage deal collapses amid clashing demands

The fragile ceasefire, brokered in January, initially led to the release of 33 Israeli hostages and five Thai nationals in exchange for around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. However, talks to free the remaining 59 Israeli hostages stalled as Hamas demanded a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza — an offer Israel refused.

Hamas, in turn, accused Israel of violating the agreement and called on mediators to hold Netanyahu’s government responsible. “We demand that the mediators hold Netanyahu and the Zionist occupation fully responsible for overturning the deal,” the group said in a statement.

US consulted before Israeli assault, White House confirms

The White House confirmed it was informed ahead of Israel’s latest military operation. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, “The Trump administration and the White House were consulted by the Israelis on their attacks in Gaza tonight.” She reiterated the administration’s hardline stance against Hamas, Iran, and allied militant groups, warning that “all hell will break loose.”

Humanitarian catastrophe deepens

The renewed assault further worsens an already dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza. According to the territory’s health ministry, more than 48,500 people have been killed since the war erupted on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched a deadly attack on Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.

The Israeli offensive has devastated Gaza’s infrastructure, leaving 70% of buildings damaged or destroyed. Severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies have displaced most of Gaza’s 2.1 million residents.

“There is no safe place left. The bombings do not stop,” a Gaza resident told the Associated Press, reflecting the desperation on the ground.

As international mediators scramble to restart negotiations, the region remains on edge, with fears of further escalation in the days ahead.