Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday directed the country’s military to launch “powerful strikes” on the Gaza Strip, moments after accusing Hamas of violating the US-brokered ceasefire agreement.
Military Action Ordered After Security Consultation
A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office said Netanyahu’s decision followed a round of high-level security consultations.
“Following security discussions, Prime Minister Netanyahu instructed the military to immediately carry out powerful strikes in the Gaza Strip,” the statement read.
The order came shortly after reports emerged that Hamas militants had opened fire in southern Gaza. Tensions further escalated when Hamas returned partial remains of a hostage previously identified and recovered by Israel.
Ceasefire Violations and Hostage Controversy
Under the ceasefire deal that came into effect on October 10, Hamas had agreed to hand over the remains of 28 hostages. However, forensic analysis by Israel revealed that the body handed over late Monday had already been returned two years earlier.
Netanyahu’s office described the act as a “clear violation of the agreement.” Hamas had earlier claimed the delivery was part of its commitment under the truce.
Hamas Postpones Handover, Cites Israeli ‘Violations’
Minutes after Netanyahu’s strike order, Hamas’s armed wing — the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades — announced the postponement of another scheduled handover, citing Israeli “violations” of the ceasefire.
“We will delay the handover due to the occupation’s violations,” the group said, warning that any escalation would obstruct ongoing efforts to locate and recover remaining bodies.
Israel Plans Expansion Of Control In Gaza
According to reports by The Jerusalem Post, Israel is preparing to expand its control over certain areas within the Gaza Strip in response to what it calls “repeated ceasefire breaches” by Hamas.
Israeli officials described the plan as an attempt to “nibble away” at Hamas-held territories, even as discussions continue with the United States regarding the scope of the military expansion.
