Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that the recent airstrikes on Gaza, which claimed the lives of over 400 Palestinians, mark “only the beginning.” In a televised address on March 18, he asserted that Israeli forces would intensify their attacks on Hamas with “greater force,” emphasizing that any future ceasefire discussions would occur “under fire.”
The overnight airstrikes hit multiple locations in Gaza, including Gaza City, Khan Younis, Rafah, and Deir el-Balah, resulting in at least 404 fatalities and over 560 injuries, many of whom were children.
Read more: Over 200 Palestinians Killed as Gaza Ceasefire Breaks Amid Trump Administration’s Watch
This military escalation effectively ended the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which had been in effect since January 19.
Netanyahu outlined Israel’s key military goals, including securing the release of hostages, dismantling Hamas, and ensuring that Gaza no longer poses a security threat. He blamed Hamas for the ceasefire’s breakdown, accusing the group of refusing to engage in long-term peace negotiations.
Despite international diplomatic efforts, including a proposed “bridge” deal by US envoy Steve Witkoff, Hamas rejected Israel’s conditions, which included extending the ceasefire and releasing additional hostages. Netanyahu also accused Hamas of endangering civilians and urged Gaza’s residents to distance themselves from its militants.
The latest airstrikes come amid stalled negotiations for a second phase of the ceasefire, heightening concerns over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. As Israel continues its military offensive, the humanitarian situation in the region is worsening.
The blockade imposed by Israel, along with the suspension of aid deliveries for more than two weeks, has significantly exacerbated the crisis. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and aid organizations are struggling to provide essential supplies. Meanwhile, mass evacuations are underway in northern Gaza following Israeli-issued evacuation orders, signaling further military action.
According to Palestinian health officials, the death toll in Gaza has now exceeded 48,000.
Pakistan has strongly condemned Israel’s airstrikes, which resulted in the deaths of over 400 Palestinians, primarily women and children.
Labeling the attacks as a “horrific act of aggression” during the sacred month of Ramazan, Pakistan’s Foreign Office stated that the strikes violated the ceasefire and dangerously escalated tensions in the region.
“We call on the international community to take immediate action to stop the violence and renew diplomatic efforts to establish lasting peace in Gaza and the broader Middle East,” a Foreign Office spokesperson declared.
