The Israeli military attacked various parts of Gaza on March 18, following the failure to extend the ceasefire that halted fighting in January. According to the Palestinian health ministry, more than 100 people have been killed, including many children.
The attacks were reported in Northern Gaza, Gaza City, Deir al-Balah, Khan Younis, and Rafah in the central and southern parts of the Gaza Strip.
According to the Israeli military, they targeted mid-level commandersand other Hamas leaders as well as the group's structures. They announced that the attacks would continue "as long as necessary."
Hamas condemned Israel's action, saying it violated the ceasefire agreement and left uncertainty over the fate of the 59 hostages still being held in Gaza.
Meanwhile, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hamas of continuing to refuse to release the hostages, despite suggestions made by US envoy Steve Witkoff.
According to the White House, Israel first consulted with the American administration before carrying out the attacks.
Talks between Israeli and Hamas representatives in Doha have failed, despite efforts from mediators from Egyptand Qatar.
Israel, with the help of the United States, has pushed for the release of the remaining hostages in exchange for a longer ceasefire that would hopefully last until the end of Ramadan and the Jewish Passover in April.
But Hamas insisted that they must first negotiate a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.
According to witnesses and Palestinian health officials, several buildings in Gaza City and houses in Deir Al-Balah were hit by airstrikes.
The fighting in Gaza has left more than 48,000 dead, according to Palestinian authorities, and has also nearly destroyed many homes and facilities such as hospitals.
