Israel Launches Devastating Attack on Gaza, Killing Over 70; Netanyahu Vows Hamas's Elimination. Ceasefire Collapses.
Israel Attacks on Gaza: The Israeli military launched a massive aerial assault on the Gaza Strip, resulting in a significant and feared loss of life. The attacks began Wednesday night and continued into Thursday morning. Medical sources report that homes in various areas of Gaza, including Khan Yunis, Rafah, and Beit Lahia, were targeted. While the exact death toll remains unclear, Al Jazeera reports that over 70 people have been killed.
Ceasefire Collapse and Renewed Assault
The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas collapsed over a week ago. Since then, the Israeli military has intensified its attacks on Gaza. Three days prior, Israel conducted a large-scale attack on Gaza, resulting in over 400 deaths. Now, Israel has launched further attacks, including ground operations in both northern and southern Gaza.
Netanyahu's Threat: "This is Only the Beginning"
Following the deaths of over 400 people in Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that these attacks are merely the beginning. He declared that his goal is the complete elimination of Hamas. Netanyahu also warned that Hamas will face even more severe consequences if it fails to release its hostages.
Mounting Devastation in Gaza
According to the Gaza health ministry, the previous attack resulted in 436 deaths, including 183 children. The Israeli government has stated that it has ordered further attacks on Gaza to pressure Hamas and that these will escalate to include ground operations in the next phase.
