New clashes between Israel and Hamas: airstrikes and mass casualties in the Gaza Strip

On the night of March 18, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that it had carried out several airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, targeting Hamas's mid-level commanders and infrastructure. The Times of Israel reported that the strikes were carried out in response to the Israeli government's need to take "strong measures" against Hamas.

According to the IDF, the strikes launched during the war targeted members of Hamas's political bureau and military facilities. The operations, carried out jointly with the Shin Bet security service, were a response to Hamas' actions, and the decision to launch a "powerful strike" was made due to the worsening situation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yisrael Katz have ordered the military to take decisive action against Hamas. The decision, which is necessary and determined to ensure Israel's security, is ongoing and could be expanded in future phases.

Crimes and threats

Israeli airstrikes have reportedly killed more than 300 people and injured thousands more. The Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip's health ministry said many children were among the dead. Schools in the al-Daraj district of Gaza City and the local population of Rafah were among the victims, with the local population fleeing to the north to escape the displacement and danger.

One of the Hamas leaders, Izzat al-Rishq, called the Israeli attacks a “death sentence” and stressed that the result was the loss of human rights and the desire for peace. According to him, Israel chose war and failed to bring about a peace agreement.

Decisions reached

The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas was extended after its first phase, which was due to expire on January 19. Since then, conditions and negotiations have been put forward, but the second phase of the negotiations has not yet begun. During the first phase of the peace agreement, 33 Israeli soldiers were taken hostage, while Hamas released about two thousand Palestinians.

The ongoing problems between Israel and Hamas and their military responses raise even greater frustrations and human rights issues. The development of this situation requires more lasting agreements, reducing human casualties, and ensuring mutual freedom.

Photo: Omar Al-Qattaa / AFP / Scanpix / LETA Follow “Zamin” news on “Telegram”