Israel Strikes Gaza After Accusing Hamas of Ceasefire Breach

Israel has carried out a series of air strikes across the Gaza Strip, after accusing Hamas of violating the US-brokered ceasefire agreement by attacking Israeli soldiers and failing to return the bodies of hostages.

Defence Minister Israel Katz said Hamas had crossed “a bright red line” by targeting troops in Rafah on Tuesday, warning that the group would “pay many times over” for breaching the deal.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later confirmed he had ordered “forceful strikes” but gave no further details.

Palestinian officials said at least nine people were killed in the attacks, including women and children, after explosions were reported in Gaza City, Khan Younis and other parts of the territory.

One strike hit a home in the Sabra neighbourhood, while another targeted a vehicle on al-Qassam Street.

Hamas denied any involvement in the alleged assault on Israeli forces, insisting it remained committed to the ceasefire.

The group called the Israeli bombardment a “blatant violation” of the truce.

The latest violence comes amid growing tension over the return of deceased hostages’ bodies.

Earlier this week, Israel accused Hamas of handing over human remains that did not match any of the 13 hostages still unaccounted for, calling it a “clear violation” of the peace terms.

The International Committee of the Red Cross said it was “not aware” that the recovery was staged, condemning any actions that could undermine the fragile agreement.

Despite the renewed hostilities, US Vice-President JD Vance said the ceasefire “is holding,” acknowledging what he called “skirmishes” but expressing confidence that the broader peace would continue.

The truce, brokered by the United States, Egypt, Qatar and Turkey, is part of President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan.

Under its terms, Hamas agreed to release all hostages, living and deceased, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and detainees held by Israel.

More than 68,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel’s military campaign began following the October 2023 Hamas-led attack, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Agencies