Omotayo Adigun
In a direct response to Israel’s renewed military campaign within the Gaza Strip. Hamas initiated rocket strikes directed towards central Israel, on Thursday, bringing a period of relative calm between Israel and Hamas to an abrupt end.
The Israeli military reported that three projectiles were fired from Gaza. One was successfully neutralized by Israel’s defense systems, while the remaining two impacted open areas, resulting in no reported injuries. The Al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas’s military arm, acknowledged responsibility, stating that the attacks were conducted in retaliation for Israeli actions that have led to significant Palestinian losses. They specified that Tel Aviv was targeted using M90 rockets.
This escalation followed Israel’s decision to terminate the two-month period of reduced conflict, initiating aerial strikes on Tuesday, followed by ground operations inside Gaza. The ongoing conflict has also drawn involvement from external actors, with Yemen’s Houthi forces, backed by Iran, launching a ballistic missile at Israel, which was reportedly intercepted.
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The breakdown of the ceasefire has triggered a cycle of mutual accusations, with Israel alleging that Hamas rejected revised terms and Hamas accusing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of deliberately undermining the truce, further jeopardizing the safety of hostages.
In Gaza, the Israeli military has intensified its operational activities, asserting that it has regained control of the Netzarim Corridor, a strategically important area that divides the Gaza Strip. Palestinian sources reported that Israeli airstrikes continued throughout the night, resulting in additional casualties.
Timely update will be reported as this story is developing.