The Israeli military announced that it has “begun the renewed enforcement of the ceasefire” in Gaza following a series of airstrikes that reportedly killed at least 104 Palestinians. These strikes occurred on March 26, 2024, as tensions escalated and fears grew that the U.S.-brokered peace agreement between Israel and Hamas could collapse. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the operations targeted “dozens of terror targets and terrorists.”
The recent violence erupted when IDF forces were engaged in operations in Rafah, a city in southern Gaza, aiming to dismantle tunnels. An Israeli military source reported that enemy fire was directed at an engineering vehicle, resulting in the death of Master Sergeant (Res.) Yona Efraim Feldbaum. Subsequently, anti-tank missiles were aimed at a separate armored vehicle and troops in the vicinity, although Hamas denied any involvement in the incident.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded by ordering the military to conduct “powerful strikes” in retaliation for what he described as ceasefire violations by Hamas. The strikes led to a delay in the return of the remains of another hostage, further complicating the already tense situation.
International Reactions and Accusations
In the wake of the airstrikes, Hamas accused the Israeli military of committing a “large-scale massacre,” claiming that the attacks violated the agreement to halt hostilities. Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem stated that Israel’s actions demonstrated a “clear lack of respect” for the mediators and guarantor states involved in the peace efforts.
During a trip to Asia, former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for Israel’s actions, asserting that the country was justified in its response. He remarked, “They hit back,” and expressed confidence that the ongoing violence would not jeopardize the broader peace agreement, which he claimed had support from “many countries.”
Palestinians in Gaza voiced their despair over the violence. Mohammed Hasan Abu Daqa, a resident of Khan Younis, called on the international community to support the people of Gaza. “The people of Gaza are searching for food. They are searching for water. They are searching for freedom,” he said, emphasizing the dire humanitarian conditions and the need for open crossings.
Continuing Conflict and Humanitarian Concerns
The situation in Gaza remains precarious as the conflict escalates. The humanitarian crisis has deepened, with many Palestinians facing severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. The ongoing airstrikes and military operations only serve to heighten fears of further escalation.
As the ceasefire faces renewed challenges, the international community watches closely. The implications of these developments could affect not only the immediate region but the broader peace efforts involving multiple nations.
The recent violence underscores the fragility of the situation in Gaza and the urgent need for dialogue and resolution to prevent further loss of life and suffering.