Israel Defies Global Criticism, Vows to Continue Gaza Strikes.
Israel has vowed to continue its intense bombing of Gaza, which has reportedly left hundreds dead and drawn international condemnation. The strikes, which began on Tuesday, are the largest since a truce took effect in January, killing over 400 people across the Gaza Strip, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory.
Witnesses reported that the attacks had largely stopped by Tuesday afternoon, although sporadic bombing continued. Jihan Nahhal, a 43-year-old woman from Gaza City, described the scene as “a real hell,” with huge explosions and some of her relatives wounded or killed in the strikes.
Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that the country would continue fighting until the return of all hostages seized by Palestinian militants during the October 2023 attack. Hamas, which has not responded militarily, accused Israel of attempting to force it to “surrender.” Saar emphasized that “without the release of our hostages, Israel has no alternative but resuming military operations”.
The White House confirmed that Israel consulted with the US administration before launching the strikes, which were described as “fully coordinated” with Washington. However, the international community, including the United Nations, Britain, France, and Germany, condemned the strikes, calling for an end to the renewed hostilities.
Hamas leader Sami Abu Zuhri accused Israel of seeking to “impose a surrender agreement, writing it in the blood of Gaza.” Defence Minister Israel Katz warned that “Hamas must understand that the rules of the game have changed,” threatening to unleash the Israeli military until the group’s “complete destruction” if it did not immediately free the hostages.
The conflict has had devastating consequences, with the Gaza health ministry reporting 413 deaths and medical facilities overwhelmed. UNICEF spokeswoman Rosalia Bollen described the situation as “shocking,” with dozens of children killed and many more wounded.
The international community has urged both sides to negotiate a lasting ceasefire, but the deadlock persists. Hamas demands negotiations for a second phase, while Israel seeks to extend the first phase. The situation remains volatile, with the potential for further escalation.
