Israeli strikes against Gaza at the start of Thursday morning resulted in at least 70 Palestinians killed, including women and children, reported Al Jazeera quoting Gaza’s civil defense agency. The intensified military attack came on the back of a brief truce with Israeli forces penetrating into the region and taking control over parts of the Netzarim corridor.
The passageway, dividing northern and southern Gaza, is currently utilized as a buffer for targeted ground operations. The Israeli soldiers had earlier retreated from the region under a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. However, they have now ordered civilians to vacate the “combat zone” as military action escalates.
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Israeli Defence Minister Issues ‘Last Warning’
Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Katz spoke to Gaza’s residents, telling them that their only way out is to give up Hamas and release all the hostages who were taken during the October 7, 2023, attack.
“Take the advice of the president of the United States. Return the hostages and get rid of Hamas, and other doors will open to you — including the possibility of leaving for other destinations in the world for those who desire,” he said, according to the Associated Press.
Katz further stated that the latest airstrikes were “just the first step,” warning Hamas of an intensified military campaign: “We will continue bombardment with an intensity that you have not known” until Hamas surrenders control of Gaza and returns all hostages.
Hundreds Killed Since Renewed Fighting Began
Gaza’s health ministry indicated that in the days since the escalation of Israeli attacks on Tuesday, at least 436 have been killed, among them 183 children and 94 women. Another 678 have been injured as Israeli forces increase their operations.
Hamas official Abdel-Latif al-Qanou informed the Associated Press that Israel’s takeover of the Netzarim corridor is an indication that it is ready to resume all-out war and reimpose a blockade that would sever Gaza from foreign aid.
Yemen’s Missile Retaliation Fails
In the midst of the increasing regional tensions, Yemen tried to retaliate against Israel on Thursday by firing a missile, but Israeli defense systems intercepted it before it crossed into Israeli airspace.
Ceasefire Talks Collapse
Though a temporary ceasefire had brought a temporary halt to the 15-month war in Gaza, talks on a second phase broke down. Israel wanted an extension of the earlier pact, whereas Hamas demanded a complete ceasefire, resulting in another cycle of violence.
