In a sudden escalation, Israel launched extensive airstrikes across the Gaza Strip on March 18, 2025, effectively ending a fragile ceasefire that had been in place since January.
The Gaza Health Ministry reported over 400 Palestinian deaths, including many women and children, marking one of the deadliest 24 hour periods since the war began in 2023. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that these attacks were “just the beginning” and emphasized that future negotiations with Hamas would occur “under fire.”
The abrupt resumption of hostilities has drawn widespread international condemnation. Countries such as Turkey, Iran, South Africa, France, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt have called for an immediate ceasefire.
The United Nations expressed deep concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis, noting that Gaza’s hospitals are overwhelmed and essential supplies are critically low. The renewed violence has also sparked protests within Israel, with families of hostages and former hostages expressing horror at the government’s decision to break the truce, fearing for the safety of those still held captive by Hamas.
