Israel has announced it will resume enforcing a ceasefire in Gaza after unleashing overnight airstrikes that killed at least 104 Palestinians, including dozens of children, in what local health officials described as the deadliest breach since the truce took effect on October 10.
According to Gaza’s health ministry, among the fatalities were 46 children and 20 women, and more than 250 people were wounded. The Israeli military said it struck “terror targets” following what it claimed was a violation by Hamas involving attacks on Israeli forces and the return of partial remains of a hostage, actions Israel said breached the terms of the truce.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had ordered “powerful strikes” after accusing Hamas of staging a “clear violation” of the agreement, citing the handover of remains Israel says it had already recovered two years ago. In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it targeted 30 “terror commanders” in Gaza during the strikes.
Although the ceasefire is now reinstated, questions remain over its durability. Israeli officials said they would respond firmly to any future violations. U.S. President Donald Trump, while affirming that the truce must hold, voiced support for Israel’s right to retaliate, warning that Hamas must “behave” or face destruction.
The overnight strikes wrought havoc across Gaza. Hospitals were overwhelmed, morgues filled, and mass funeral processions took place in multiple cities. Gaza’s civil defence described scenes of devastation, including targeted blows to displaced-person camps and residential neighborhoods near medical facilities.
Hamas denied any role in the incidents alleged by Israel and said it remained committed to the ceasefire. In retaliation, it postponed the promised return of another hostage’s remains, accusing Israel of violating the agreement unilaterally.
