The Israeli military announced the resumption of airstrikes in Gaza, claiming to have targeted “dozens of terror targets” as violence surged in the region. This escalation has raised concerns regarding the stability of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, following reports of at least 104 Palestinians killed in the strikes, according to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health in Gaza.
On March 5, 2024, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated their intention to uphold the ceasefire agreement while warning of a firm response to any violations. An Israeli military source reported that operations in Rafah, southern Gaza, aimed at dismantling tunnels led to hostile fire directed at IDF personnel, resulting in the death of Master Sergeant (Res.) Yona Efraim Feldbaum. In retaliation, the IDF launched airstrikes targeting what they described as “terrorist positions.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded to the situation by ordering the military to conduct “powerful strikes” in reaction to perceived violations by Hamas. Following these developments, Hamas announced that it would postpone the return of another hostage’s remains, which had been anticipated on the same day.
President Donald Trump, currently on a diplomatic trip to Asia, defended Israel’s actions, stating, “they hit back” and expressing confidence that the broader peace agreement remained intact. He noted that “many countries” were willing to assist in the peace process.
In a statement following the airstrikes, Hamas accused the Israeli military of committing “a large-scale massacre” and asserted that the attacks demonstrated a lack of respect for the mediators involved in the ceasefire agreement. Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem condemned the strikes as part of what he characterized as a “genocidal war” against the people of Gaza.
Local residents expressed their distress over the ongoing violence. Mohammed Hasan Abu Daqa, a Palestinian from Khan Younis, called for global support, stating, “The people of Gaza are searching for food. They are searching for water. They are searching for freedom.” He urged Arab nations and world leaders to advocate for the reopening of crossings and for a decent quality of life.
As the situation develops, the international community remains watchful of the fragile peace efforts, with both sides facing immense pressure to adhere to the terms of the ceasefire and prevent further escalation.
