“Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to launch immediate and decisive strikes against terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip in response to Hamas' violation of the ceasefire agreement” – said in an official statement from the office of the head of government.
Read also: The court in Katowice issues a letter of safe conduct for Henryk Kania. Controversy surrounding the decision
According to Israeli media, in recent hours there has been a resumption of rocket fire from Gaza towards the southern regions of Israel. In response, the Israeli air force launched airstrikes on Hamas positions.
Ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Why was it violated?
Tension arose when – in accordance with previous arrangements – the Palestinian group was to hand over the body of a hostage held in the Gaza Strip to the Israeli side. However, the Al-Qassam Brigades, the armed arm of Hamas, announced on Tuesday that they were postponing the decision to hand over the body “to a later date”, accusing Israel of violating the terms of the ceasefire.
“Due to the violation of the agreement by the Israeli occupier, the transfer of the body of the Israeli hostage is suspended” – said Hamas in a statement. It was not specified what specific actions by Israel were to constitute a violation of the agreement.
Read also: Donald Tusk sharply talks about the sale of land for the CPK. “It's the stench of corruption”
The ceasefire, which came into force a few days ago with the mediation of Egypt and the United States, was intended to enable the exchange of prisoners, the delivery of humanitarian aid and the evacuation of the wounded from the besieged Gaza Strip. It was the first period of relative respite in months for civilians on both sides of the conflict.
Netanyahu's decision to resume military operations may mean a breakdown in ongoing negotiations for a long-term truce. The Israeli prime minister announced earlier that “Israel will not accept any agreement that will allow Hamas to rebuild its military potential.”
The situation in the region remains tense. The Israeli military said it was “ready for any scenario,” and Hamas announced “retaliation for any Israeli attack.”
