Israeli airstrikes kill over 400 Palestinians in Gaza

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Israel launched airstrikes across the Gaza Strip early Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of at least 404 Palestinians, including women and children. This attack ended a ceasefire that had been in place since January and raised fears of reigniting a war that has lasted for 17 months. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the strikes after Hamas did not comply with Israel's demands to modify the ceasefire agreement. The Israeli military has instructed residents in eastern Gaza to evacuate, suggesting further military action is likely. The recent strikes occurred during Ramadan and signaled a potential full-scale return to war, which has already caused significant casualties and destruction in Gaza. A senior Hamas official described Netanyahu's actions as a "death sentence" for hostages still held by Hamas. The strikes followed a period of relative calm, which had allowed some displaced Palestinians to return home. However, many in Gaza had anticipated a return to conflict due to stalled negotiations for a new ceasefire. Reports indicated that a strike on a home in Rafah killed 17 members of one family. Hospitals in southern Gaza were overwhelmed with injured people seeking care. Humanitarian conditions remain dire, with significant damage and loss of life reported since the war began. The U.S. government has supported Israel's actions, blaming Hamas for failing to extend the ceasefire by not releasing hostages. Negotiations for a second phase of the ceasefire had broken down, making the situation even more precarious. Netanyahu faces political pressure amid calls for a ceasefire and protests over the government's handling of the hostage crisis and the overall war situation. This air campaign may shift the dynamics within his government and the ongoing conflict with Hamas.


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Israeli airstrikes kill over 400 Palestinians in Gaza | News Minimalist