Israel Launches New Strikes After Failed Ceasefire Negotiations

Israel has launched its heaviest assault on Gaza since January’s ceasefire, with over 400 Palestinian casualties reported as peace negotiations collapse.

Key Takeaways

Israel conducted extensive airstrikes across Gaza following stalled hostage release negotiations, resulting in over 400 Palestinian deaths, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.
The White House blames Hamas for the escalated situation, citing their refusal to release hostages, while promising consequences for those threatening Israel.
The conflict has reportedly caused over 48,000 Palestinian deaths and displaced 90% of Gaza’s population since Hamas’ October 2023 attack.
Global reactions have poured in, with the U.S. supporting Israel’s actions while numerous nations condemn the strikes and call for de-escalation.

Ceasefire Collapses as Military Operations Resume

Israeli forces launched a significant wave of airstrikes across the Gaza Strip on March 18, 2025, marking the most intense military action since a fragile ceasefire was established in January. Palestinian officials reported that the strikes resulted in more than 400 deaths, including dozens of women and children. The Israeli military stated that the operation targeted Hamas infrastructure and leadership positions across multiple locations. The attacks occurred during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, intensifying concerns about regional stability.

As of Wednesday, Israel had also redeployed troops to Netzarim Corridor, which splits Gaza in half.

According to defense officials, the renewed military campaign follows weeks of unsuccessful negotiations for the release of Israeli hostages still held by Hamas militants. The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement outlining the government’s position. It said the attacks were ordered following “Hamas’s repeated refusal to release our hostages, as well as its rejection of all of the proposals it has received from US Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff and from the mediators.” In addition, the office said, “Israel will, from now on, act against Hamas with increasing military strength.” This statement signals a potential long-term escalation beyond the initial airstrikes, with Israeli forces reportedly preparing for expanded operations.

International Reactions and Diplomatic Fallout

The White House has firmly placed blame for the renewed hostilities on Hamas. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt’s statement emphasized the administration’s position: “As President Trump has made it clear, Hamas, the Houthis, Iran, all those who seek to terrorise not just Israel, but also the United States of America, will see a price to pay…” She also noted that the Trump administration had been consulted before the attacks.

International reactions have poured in, with many nations expressing concern about the humanitarian impact of renewed fighting. China, Russia, and Egypt have called for immediate de-escalation and a return to peace talks. The United Nations and multiple European countries have condemned the strikes while urging the protection of civilians and the return of the hostages. Middle Eastern nations including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Turkey have criticized Israel’s actions, with some calling for international intervention to stop what they describe as disproportionate military force.

Humanitarian Crisis and Domestic Politics

The conflict, which began when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel in October 2023, has resulted in over 48,000 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza health officials. It has also reportedly displaced approximately 90% of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents, creating one of the worst humanitarian crises in recent history. Aid organizations report critical shortages of food, medicine, and shelter throughout the territory. The earlier ceasefire had allowed limited humanitarian assistance to reach desperate civilians.