Israeli defense forces have resumed major attacks that were halted during the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip controlled by Hamas. As announced on March 18 on the Telegram channel of the Israel Defense Forces, "in accordance with the decision of the political echelon, the IDF and ISA are currently carrying out large-scale strikes on terrorist targets belonging to the Hamas organization in the Gaza Strip." It was also announced that schools in Israeli cities bordering the Gaza Strip would remain closed for the next 24 hours.
Hamas and international relations
One of the senior officials of Hamas informed Reuters that Israel has unilaterally canceled the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip. The group called on the US, Qatar, and Egypt to hold Israel fully accountable for the breach of the agreement and to convene an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council to adopt a resolution compelling Israel to end the war.
Hamas officials also stated that the decision of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government to resume military operations would "leave those taken hostage to their fate."
New casualties and devastation
According to The Times of Israel, the number of fatalities resulting from Israel's renewed strikes has reached at least 130. The report states that at least 300 people, including several children, have been injured. Buildings in the cities of Deir al-Balah, Gaza, Khan Younis, and Rafah have been destroyed as a result of the attacks.
The ceasefire agreement and its breach
The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas came into effect on January 19. The first phase of the agreement included opening a large flow of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, withdrawing troops from densely populated areas, and exchanging hostages for prisoners. The first phase ended in March, and instead of moving to the second part of the agreement, Israel demanded an extension. However, the breach of the agreement could lead to an escalation of the war.
So far, the international community is awaiting an official response to these events.
