Gaza ceasefire collapses, escalating violence and casualties

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has ended, leading to renewed violence in Gaza. After two months of relative peace, Israeli airstrikes have resumed, causing significant casualties among Palestinian civilians. The situation was highlighted by a message from Asmahan Abdalraheem, a 24-year-old Palestinian, who reported heavy bombing in Khan Younis. She shared her fears and heartache as her community returned to war. The Israeli Defence Forces confirmed they were targeting Hamas military sites. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated that the airstrikes were a response to Hamas's refusal to release hostages and reject peace proposals. There have been reports of at least 200 deaths due to the renewed attacks, marking the most lethal period since the ceasefire began. The ceasefire had three stages: hostages would be exchanged for a pause in fighting, followed by a permanent ceasefire and eventual reconstruction. However, tension built as each hostage release decreased the chance of further agreements. Hamas may see no benefit in releasing the remaining hostages, as they provide leverage over Israel. Netanyahu's strategy focuses on eliminating Hamas but lacks a clear plan for governance in Gaza. This absence of a political solution complicates the situation, as it allows Hamas to maintain control. The return of war appears aimed at forcing Hamas to negotiate under less favorable conditions, but critics argue that a solid plan for peace after the fighting is still missing.