Israel launches ‘extensive strikes’ on Gaza with at least 220 reportedly killed

The Israeli military reports conducting “significant strikes” in the Gaza Strip, while the Hamas-controlled health ministry claims that at least 220 Palestinians have died. The IDF stated it was focusing on what it referred to as “terror targets” affiliated with Hamas.

Mahmoud Abu Wafah, the Gaza deputy interior minister and the top Hamas security official in the region, has been reported killed in an attack.

This represents the largest series of airstrikes in Gaza since the ceasefire started on 19 January. Negotiations to prolong the Gaza ceasefire have not led to a consensus. Witnesses report that many individuals were enjoying their pre-dawn meal, as it is the sacred month of Ramadan, when explosions erupted in Gaza.

They reported that over 20 Israeli fighter jets flew overhead. The aircraft subsequently started striking targets in Gaza City, Rafah, and Khan Younis. According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s office, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz commanded the strikes on Tuesday morning.

“This follows Hamas’s repeated refusal to release our hostages, as well as its rejection of all of the proposals it has received from US Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff and from the mediators,” it said.

“Israel will, from now on, act against Hamas with increasing military strength,” it added.The plan for the strikes “was presented by the IDF over the weekend and approved by the political leadership”, it said.

Israel’s Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, warned Hamas to release all the hostages, stating “we will show no mercy on our enemies”.

Hamas has reacted angrily, blaming Israel for betrayal by violating the ceasefire agreement. It also claims that Israel is putting the remaining Israeli captives in Gaza at risk of “an uncertain destiny.”

However, Hamas has not announced its return to conflict, but rather urged mediators and the United Nations for intervention. Negotiators are working to discover a path forward following the conclusion of the initial phase of the temporary ceasefire on March 1.

The US suggested prolonging the initial phase until mid-April, which would involve an additional swap of hostages held by Hamas and Palestinian detainees held by Israel.