Israel Renews Gaza Bombing After Truce Ends

Israel Air Force has launched renewed airstrikes on Gaza, targeting Hamas infrastructure and military sites.

The move comes after the collapse of a week-long ceasefire, ending a period marked by hostage releases and humanitarian aid reaching Gaza.

The ceasefire, which began on November 24 and was extended twice, saw the release of 110 hostages, including 78 Israelis, and 240 Palestinian prisoners. However, negotiations to extend the truce further failed to find common ground, leading to a resumption of hostilities.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported sirens sounding near the Gaza Strip an hour before the ceasefire's end, alleging a rocket launch intercepted from the enclave. Subsequently, fighting resumed, with the IDF accusing Hamas of violating the ceasefire terms and launching airstrikes on Gaza.

Gaza health officials reported casualties, with over 60 people killed within seven hours of renewed hostilities. Israel's airstrikes targeted more than 20 houses, resulting in 184 deaths and at least 589 injuries, according to Gaza health authorities.

The conflict escalated after Hamas initiated an attack on Southern Israel on October 7, leading to Israel's retaliatory campaign. The toll on Gaza has been severe, with health authorities claiming over 15,000 Gazans killed in Israeli bombardment.

Ongoing negotiations, mediated by Qatar, aim to secure a new ceasefire. Despite conflicting claims on the breakdown, the situation remains precarious, with hopes for a pause in the fighting dwindling. The international community, including UN humanitarian chief and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, calls for a renewed focus on protecting civilians and critical infrastructure amid the escalating violence.