Israel’s military has ordered evacuations in parts of eastern Gaza following a deadly wave of airstrikes that resulted in the deaths of more than 400 people. The strikes, which hit areas like Beit Hanoun in the north and several southern communities, shattered a months-long pause in hostilities, signaling the potential for renewed ground operations by Israeli forces.
Palestinian health authorities reported that the airstrikes targeted Hamas military commanders and political leaders, leaving over 600 others injured. Despite the ongoing attacks, which include both airstrikes and artillery fire, residents in Gaza, already suffering from months of conflict, are facing a dire humanitarian crisis. Aid officials described the situation as “a very bad night,” with people desperately fleeing to comply with the evacuation orders.
Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that Hamas would face unprecedented military force if it did not release all remaining hostages. The renewed violence comes after Hamas reportedly failed to meet ceasefire conditions, including the release of hostages as part of an agreement that began in January. This failure led Israel to resume its military operations.
The ongoing conflict, which erupted in October 2023 with Hamas attacks that killed over 1,200 Israelis and took hostages, has devastated Gaza, with over 48,000 Palestinians killed and much of the region reduced to rubble. As Israel escalates its actions, both international and domestic pressures continue to mount on the Israeli government to address the humanitarian crisis and the future of peace talks.
