Israel Launches Massive Airstrikes on Gaza; Medics Claim Over 200 killed
At least 100 people have been killed in a fresh wave of Israeli airstrikes on Gaza early Tuesday, shattering a fragile ceasefire that had held since January. The strikes hit multiple areas, including Gaza City, Deir al-Balah, Khan Younis, and Rafah, marking the most intense bombardment since the truce began. Palestinian health officials noted that many of the casualties were children, with the attacks hitting densely populated residential areas where thousands are displaced.
A White House spokesperson later confirmed that Israel had consulted with the Trump administration prior to the strikes. Speaking on Fox News’ “Hannity,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the administration had been involved in discussions about the Gaza operation. She also mentioned that President Donald Trump had warned Hamas and other groups, including the Iran-backed Houthis, that there would be severe consequences for any acts of terrorism.
The ceasefire, originally brokered on January 19, had facilitated a prisoner exchange that saw 33 Israeli and five Thai hostages released in return for about 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. However, tensions escalated as Israel accused Hamas of delaying negotiations and deliberately blocking aid to Gaza. Meanwhile, Hamas maintained that any lasting agreement must demand a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza—a term Israel has not agreed to.
Israeli forces described Tuesday’s strikes as targeting mid-level Hamas commanders and key infrastructure. In contrast, Palestinian medics and local witnesses reported widespread devastation in civilian areas, including significant damage to a building in Gaza City and several homes in Deir al-Balah. The Palestinian Health Ministry warned that Gaza’s already overburdened hospital system is struggling to cope with the influx of casualties.
This latest escalation comes amid a broader conflict that has persisted for 15 months since October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants attacked Israeli border towns, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and 251 abductions, according to Israeli officials. In response, Israel launched a major military campaign that has reportedly killed over 48,000 Palestinians, devastated much of Gaza’s infrastructure, and displaced nearly the entire population of 2.3 million people.