Israeli Military Strikes Target Hamas Across Gaza

The Israel military says it has launched new strikes on Hamas targets in Gaza.

The Israeli military launched widespread strikes across Gaza, with Palestinian Health Ministry officials reporting at least 400 casualties. The attacks, carried out early Tuesday, targeted multiple locations, including northern Gaza, Gaza City, Deir al-Balah, Khan Younis, and Rafah in central and southern Gaza Strip.

Israel's Lieutenant Colonel Avichay Adraee issued an evacuation notice for the neighborhoods of Beit Hanoun, Khirbet Khuza'a, Abasan al-Kabira, and al-Jadida, warning that these areas were now designated as dangerous combat zones. The Israeli military stated that dozens of targets were hit, including mid-level Hamas commanders, leadership figures, and infrastructure. It affirmed that operations would persist as necessary and extend beyond airstrikes.

The Israeli defense minister emphasized that military actions would continue until all remaining hostages were released. A senior Hamas official, Izzat al-Risheq, condemned the strikes, asserting that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had effectively sentenced the hostages to death in an effort to maintain his governing coalition. Hamas accused Israel of breaking a ceasefire agreement and endangering 59 hostages still held in Gaza. Netanyahu’s office, in turn, blamed Hamas for rejecting hostage release proposals.

Much of Gaza is in ruins after 15 months of fighting.

The strikes marked a significant escalation beyond the previous targeted drone attacks conducted against suspected militants. The offensive followed weeks of unsuccessful negotiations to extend a ceasefire agreement originally reached on January 19. The Israeli government declared its intention to intensify military operations against Hamas.

Palestinian health authorities and witnesses reported extensive damage in multiple areas, including buildings in Gaza City and homes in Deir al-Balah. The strikes also hit targets in Khan Younis and Rafah, further impacting civilian areas where many have been living in makeshift shelters. The Israeli army did not disclose specific details about the strikes, but reports indicate significant destruction and casualties across the region.