Fighting Resumes in Gaza After Ceasefire Collapse: IDF Launches Extensive Airstrikes on Hamas

Fighting between Israeli forces and Hamas has resumed after nearly two months of ceasefire, with the Israeli government launching extensive airstrikes against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip. The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yisrael Katz had instructed the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to take forceful action against the Hamas terrorist organization. The decision comes after Hamas refused to release hostages and rejected offers from U.S. President’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, and other mediators.

Hamas reported that over 230 people, including several senior Hamas figures, were killed in the Israeli airstrikes that began on Monday night. The air attacks are a significant escalation, with the IDF targeting over 20,000 Hamas and Islamic Jihad operatives redeployed in Gaza. The assault is reportedly the most extensive airstrike on Hamas since the end of last year's ground operation.

The primary goal of the air campaign is to surprise Hamas by attacking multiple targets simultaneously, including Hamas commanders, infrastructure, tunnels, and weapons depots. The operation is designed to maximize damage to the terrorist organization.

Political Echelon and Military Forces Mobilized 
The airstrikes are just the beginning of a broader operation, with the IDF prepared for further military action if necessary. The IDF has been placed on high alert across all sectors, with defense forces deployed on Israel’s borders and air defense systems in place. New IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and Shin Bet head Ronen Bar Mehabor command the operation.

The IDF’s operation aims to achieve key war goals, including the release of all hostages. The operation is also expected to expand beyond airstrikes and could involve additional military measures as the situation develops.

Hamas Calls for Global Action
In response to the attacks, Hamas condemned the Israeli airstrikes and accused Prime Minister Netanyahu of renewing aggression against Palestinian civilians in Gaza. The group warned that the ceasefire collapse could lead to a catastrophic situation for hostages in Gaza. Hamas also urged the Arab League, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the United Nations to hold Israel accountable and demand an end to the attacks.

White House Responds to Renewed Fighting
In a statement to Fox News, White House spokeswoman Caroline Levitt noted that the Trump administration had been briefed on the renewed conflict. Levitt emphasized that President Donald Trump’s administration stands firmly behind Israel, warning that those who engage in terrorism against Israel or the United States will face severe consequences.

IDF Chief of Staff: "Necessary Force Will Be Used"
Defense Minister Yisrael Katz also issued a stern warning, stating that if Hamas does not release all kidnapped individuals, Israel will respond with unprecedented military force. Katz vowed that the IDF would not cease its operations until all hostages are freed and the political and military objectives of the operation are achieved.

In response to the growing threat, the IDF has updated the Home Front Command’s defense policy, placing the Gaza envelope area under a reduced activity level. This change means that educational activities in certain areas will be restricted. Other regions, including parts of Negev and Lachish, remain at full activity levels, and citizens are urged to follow the updated guidelines provided by the Home Front Command.

As the fighting continues, both sides remain in a tense and volatile situation, with no indication of an imminent ceasefire.