The conflict in Gaza has erupted once again, shattering a two-month ceasefire as Hamas launched rockets at Israel in response to a renewed Israeli offensive. The situation is escalating rapidly, with tensions mounting on both sides and protests erupting in Israel against the government’s decision to reignite the war.
Hamas’ Rocket Attack: A Retaliation Against Israel’s Renewed Offensive
On Thursday, Hamas fired rockets at central Israel, marking its first major military response since Israel resumed its offensive in Gaza. According to the Israeli military, three projectiles were launched—one was intercepted, while the other two landed in open areas, causing no casualties.
Hamas’ military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, confirmed the attack, stating they had “bombed the city of Tel Aviv deep inside the occupied territories with a barrage of M90 rockets.” The militant group declared that this was a direct retaliation for Israel’s recent airstrikes and ground operations, which have resulted in hundreds of casualties in Gaza.
The Collapse of the Ceasefire: Who’s to Blame?
The latest hostilities broke out after Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Tuesday, followed by a ground offensive the next day. This marked a significant shift from the relative calm that had held since January. While Israel blames Hamas for refusing to accept revised ceasefire terms, Hamas accuses Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of deliberately breaking the truce, putting hostages at risk and plunging the region back into war.
Protests have erupted in Jerusalem, with thousands gathering outside the Knesset (Israel’s parliament) to voice their anger against Netanyahu’s decision. Many demonstrators argue that Netanyahu is using the conflict to strengthen his shaky governing coalition, which has faced internal fractures over how to handle the war in Gaza.
Yemen’s Houthi Rebels Enter the Fray
As if tensions weren’t high enough, Israel was also targeted from Yemen overnight. The Houthi rebels, an Iran-backed militia, fired a ballistic missile at Israel, marking the second attack from Yemen since the ceasefire collapsed. The Israeli military reported intercepting the missile, but the added pressure from another front further complicates an already volatile situation.
The Political Fallout: Netanyahu’s Coalition Under Fire
Netanyahu’s government is facing mounting pressure, both internally and externally. His decision to resume hostilities has drawn fierce criticism, especially from those who see it as a strategic move to maintain power. Far-right minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who had previously quit the government in protest over the January ceasefire, has now announced his return to Netanyahu’s coalition.
Ben-Gvir’s return comes at a crucial time for Netanyahu. With a looming March 31 deadline to pass Israel’s next budget, his political future depends on keeping his coalition intact. The renewed war effort appears to have secured Ben-Gvir’s support, but at what cost?
Heavy Casualties and Destruction in Gaza
As Israel’s military continues its offensive, Palestinian officials report devastating losses. Overnight bombings have killed at least 85 people, according to Gaza’s health ministry, with fears that the death toll could rise as many remain trapped under the rubble. Earlier airstrikes on Tuesday had already left over 400 people dead, according to local reports.
Israel has also announced that its forces have retaken the Netzarim Corridor, a strategic strip of land that effectively divides Gaza in two—separating Gaza City and northern areas from the southern region bordering Egypt. This move significantly weakens Hamas’ ability to operate across the entire territory.
What’s Next?
With the ceasefire in ruins and the war raging on multiple fronts, the situation remains dire. Netanyahu’s government faces not only military challenges but also growing dissent from within Israel. Meanwhile, Hamas shows no sign of backing down, and the involvement of external players like the Houthis raises the risk of the conflict spiraling even further.
As both sides dig in, the prospect of a peaceful resolution seems increasingly distant. The coming days will be critical in determining whether this renewed fighting will escalate into an even broader war or if international pressure will force both sides back to the negotiating table. For now, however, the cycle of violence continues, with innocent civilians paying the highest price.
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