Israeli airstrikes hit multiple locations across Gaza on Tuesday, escalating tensions after authorities accused Hamas of violating a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. The strikes—reportedly ordered by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu—killed at least 26 people, including civilians in refugee camps and urban neighborhoods, according to local health officials.
The violence marks the most significant challenge to the October 10 truce, which ended two years of conflict sparked by Hamas-led attacks on Israel. Witnesses described sustained aerial bombardments continuing into Wednesday, with residential areas and vehicles targeted in Gaza City, Khan Younis, and central Gaza's Bureij refugee camp.
An Israeli military official, speaking anonymously, claimed Hamas had breached the ceasefire by attacking Israeli forces in a controlled zone. "This is yet another blatant violation," the official stated, though Hamas denied responsibility and reaffirmed its commitment to the agreement.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance, visiting Israel last week, acknowledged "little skirmishes" but expressed confidence in the ceasefire's durability. Analysts warn the escalation risks undermining regional stability as both sides trade blame.
The strikes follow Saturday's Israeli "targeted strike" on a suspected militant in central Gaza, further straining the fragile peace. With no immediate comment from Israel's military on Wednesday's attacks, international observers urge restraint to prevent full-scale conflict from reigniting.
