Israel said it was conducting “wide-scale attacks” on Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip, accusing Hamas of refusing to release hostages.
Israel Military Action Against Hamas in Gaza Strip
The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office announced on March 18 that the Israeli military (IDF) is carrying out attacks across the Gaza Strip under the orders of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz.
“The IDF is striking Hamas targets throughout the Gaza Strip, with the aim of achieving politically determined objectives, including the release of all our hostages, both alive and dead. From now on, Israel will act against Hamas with increasing military force,” the statement read.
Escalation of Israel-Hamas Conflict
According to the Times of Israel, the attack campaign involves dozens of Israeli fighter jets targeting Hamas positions. Gaza Strip airstrikes have intensified as Israel takes military action in response to Hamas’s rejection of multiple offers to release Israeli hostages.
The extent of the damage caused by the airstrikes is not yet clear, but the Gaza Civil Defense Authority reported that many people were trapped in collapsed houses across different areas in the Gaza Strip.
Meanwhile, Al Jazeera reported that at least 20 people, including children, were killed in the new Israeli airstrikes on Gaza. This is part of the ongoing escalation in the Gaza Strip conflict as Israel resumes military operations after a long hiatus.
Hostage Crisis and Diplomatic Rejection
Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office accused Hamas of “rejecting all offers received” from US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and other mediators regarding the release of Israeli hostages. Despite multiple negotiations, Hamas’s rejection has prompted Israel to escalate military pressure.
According to sources, Israel had informed the US in advance about the military action. The Israeli military campaign is focused on achieving the return of Israeli hostages and neutralizing Hamas’s military infrastructure in the Gaza Strip.
Impact on Gaza Civilians
As Israeli fighter jets continue airstrikes on Hamas positions in Gaza, civilian casualties have risen. Reports indicate many homes have been destroyed in the airstrikes, leaving civilians vulnerable to injury or death.
The Gaza Strip has become a flashpoint in the broader Israel-Hamas conflict, with escalating violence and tragic consequences for local residents.
Israel Prepares for Continued Escalation
In preparation for the ongoing attacks, Israel has ordered schools in border towns near the Gaza Strip to temporarily close. This decision is part of the country’s broader strategy to safeguard civilians amid the ongoing military campaign and airstrikes against Hamas.
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