Tensions escalate as Israel launches its most extensive strikes since January 19, following Hamas’ refusal to release hostages.
March 18, 2025 | Gaza City
Israel has launched intense airstrikes on Gaza following the collapse of ceasefire negotiations with Hamas. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed it was conducting extensive strikes on Hamas targets, marking the biggest escalation since the ceasefire began on January 19.
Also Read: “Time is Not on Hamas’ Side”: US Pushes for Extended Israel-Hamas Ceasefire
66 Dead, 150 Injured in Strikes Across Gaza
- The airstrikes have reportedly killed 66 people and injured about 150, according to Palestinian health officials.
- Attacks were concentrated in Gaza City, Deir al-Balah, Khan Younis, and Rafah in central and southern Gaza.
- The strikes occurred during the holy month of Ramadan, further intensifying tensions.
Why Did Israel Resume Strikes?
Also Read: “Disgusting Savagery”—Israeli Deputy FM Condemns Hamas for Parading Israeli Coffins
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified the renewed military action, citing Hamas’ “repeated refusal” to release hostages and rejecting all mediation efforts from U.S. Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff and other mediators.
- Netanyahu’s Statement:
“The IDF is currently striking Hamas targets to achieve the objectives of the war, including the release of all our hostages—both the living and the deceased.” - Hamas’ Response:
- The group blamed Israel for breaking the truce, saying the attacks “put prisoners in Gaza at risk.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz have instructed the IDF to take strong action against the Hamas terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip.
— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) March 18, 2025
Ceasefire Talks Stall
The three-stage ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas fell apart over hostage releases:
- Israel sought to extend the first phase of the deal.
- Hamas refused, saying hostages would only be freed under the second phase, originally set to begin on March 2.
Key Dispute:
- Last week, Hamas offered to release American-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander along with four bodies if Israel agreed to start talks on phase two.
- Israel rejected the offer, accusing Hamas of engaging in “psychological warfare” against hostage families.
The War So Far
- The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants raided southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.
- Israel’s retaliatory strikes have since killed over 47,000 Palestinians, displacing nearly 2.3 million residents in Gaza.
With diplomatic efforts failing, the region braces for further violence as Israel signals an intensified military campaign.
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#Israel, #Gaza, #Hamas, #Ceasefire, #MiddleEastCrisis, #Netanyahu, #HostageCrisis, #Ramadan, #IDF, #Palestine,