Gaza City, February 12, 2024 — Israeli airstrikes pounded the Gaza Strip overnight, killing at least 326 people, according to Palestinian health authorities. The sudden surge in violence threatens to shatter a fragile two-month ceasefire that had been holding between Israel and Hamas.
The Israeli military confirmed the strikes, stating they targeted dozens of locations across Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced he had ordered the military to take “strong action” against Hamas, accusing the group of refusing to release remaining hostages and rejecting ceasefire proposals. “We will use all necessary force to ensure the safety of our citizens,” Netanyahu said.
Hamas, which still holds 59 of the over 250 hostages taken during the October 7 attacks last year, accused Israel of breaching the ceasefire. They warned that the renewed aggression jeopardizes efforts by international mediators to secure a lasting peace.
Egypt, a key mediator in the ceasefire agreement, called for restraint from all parties. “We urge both sides to return to the negotiating table and prevent further bloodshed,” an Egyptian government spokesperson said.
Across Gaza, residents described a night of intense bombing reminiscent of the war’s early days. “It was a night of hell,” said Rabiha Jamal, a 65-year-old mother of five from Gaza City. “We thought the worst was over, but it feels like the war is back.” Hospitals, already strained by months of conflict, were overwhelmed as casualties flooded in.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, expressed horror at the renewed violence. “This will add tragedy onto tragedy,” Turk said. “Resorting to more military force will only bring further misery to a population already facing catastrophic conditions.”
Israel has halted humanitarian aid deliveries into Gaza for over two weeks, exacerbating the crisis. The shutdown has left many without access to essential supplies, including food and medical aid.
Tensions are also flaring beyond Gaza. Israeli media reported that shelters in Tel Aviv are being prepared for possible retaliation from Hamas or other groups in the region. The conflict has the potential to further destabilize the Middle East, with concerns it could spread to neighboring countries.
As the situation unfolds, the international community watches with apprehension, hoping for a return to dialogue and a halt to the escalating violence.
