Israel has resumed large-scale airstrikes on Gaza, marking the most severe escalation of violence since a ceasefire was brokered on January 19. The Gaza Health Ministry, run by Hamas, reported that at least 413 Palestinians have been killed in the strikes, with many more still trapped under rubble. The ministry stated, "A number of victims are still under the rubble, and work is underway to recover them." While Israel has questioned the accuracy of these figures, international bodies, including the United Nations, consider them broadly reliable.

The Israeli military has ordered residents of eastern Gaza to evacuate to the center of the territory, signaling the possibility of a ground assault. The White House confirmed that it was consulted by Israel ahead of the strikes and has expressed support for the operation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated that the military has been ordered to act with "increasing military strength" against Hamas, accusing the group of violating the ceasefire by refusing to release all hostages and rejecting proposals from US mediators.

International Condemnation

The renewed violence has drawn widespread international condemnation. Turkey's Foreign Ministry described the airstrikes as a "massacre" and accused the Netanyahu government of pursuing a "genocide policy." Russia also expressed concern, with Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stating that the strikes represent "another deterioration in the situation and another spiral of escalation."

United Nations officials have been vocal in their criticism. Philip Lazzarini, commissioner of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), condemned the strikes, calling for an immediate return to the ceasefire. "Fueling 'hell on earth' by resuming the war will only bring more despair and suffering," he said. Muhannad Hadi, the UN humanitarian coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, described the attacks as "unconscionable" and urged an immediate end to hostilities.

Domestic and Regional Tensions

The resumption of violence comes amid growing domestic tensions in Israel. Prime Minister Netanyahu's attempt to dismiss Ronen Bar, head of the Shin Bet internal security agency, has sparked protests in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Critics argue that the move was politically motivated, as Netanyahu faces ongoing corruption investigations and pressure from far-right coalition partners who support the resumption of war.

Analysts suggest that Netanyahu's decision to escalate military operations may be an attempt to divert attention from his legal troubles and Israel's internal political crisis. Mairav Zonzein, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, told DW that the return to violence is unpopular among many Israelis, particularly the families of hostages held by Hamas, who fear for their loved ones' safety.

Houthi Attacks in Yemen

Meanwhile, the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have claimed their third attack on US ships in the Red Sea within 48 hours. The group stated that they targeted the USS Harry S. Truman carrier group with missiles and drones, calling it a retaliatory move against US strikes. The US has vowed to continue its military operations against the Houthis until they cease attacks on international shipping. President Donald Trump has warned of "overwhelming lethal force" if the attacks persist.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. The UN has warned that the resumption of hostilities will exacerbate the suffering of civilians, who have already endured months of conflict. Hospitals in Gaza are overwhelmed, and the lack of fuel and medical supplies has further strained the healthcare system. The international community is calling for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of life and to allow humanitarian aid to reach those in need.

As the violence continues, the prospects for peace appear increasingly bleak. The international community faces mounting pressure to intervene and broker a lasting resolution to the conflict, but with both sides entrenched in their positions, the path to peace remains uncertain.