Israel launched a large-scale airstrike campaign on Gaza early Tuesday, killing at least 400 people, according to local health officials.
The strikes came after Hamas failed to release hostages, leading to a renewed escalation in the ongoing conflict.
The bombardment marked the most intense attack since the ceasefire agreement in January. An Israeli official told The Wall Street Journal that the Trump administration was informed before the operation began. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt later confirmed that President Donald Trump had been consulted on the Israeli strikes. She warned that groups like Hamas, the Houthis, and Iran would face severe consequences for their actions.
The attacks targeted multiple locations across Gaza, including Gaza City, Deir al-Balah, Khan Younis, and Rafah. The Israeli military described the operation as a preemptive strike against Hamas commanders and infrastructure. However, Palestinian health officials reported that many of the casualties were women and children.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the offensive was necessary due to stalled ceasefire negotiations. He described the operation as “open-ended” and warned that Israel would continue its military campaign until its objectives were met. Israeli leaders also hinted at the possibility of a renewed ground assault.
Hamas condemned the strikes, accusing Israel of violating the truce and endangering the remaining hostages. A senior Hamas official alleged that Netanyahu ordered the attacks to strengthen his political position. The group confirmed that four of its senior leaders were among those killed.
Rescue efforts continued throughout the day as emergency crews searched for survivors under the rubble. The escalation disrupted the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and heightened fears about the fate of the hostages still held in Gaza. Mediators called for both sides to return to negotiations, but tensions remained high as airstrikes continued.