Israeli strikes across Gaza kill over 400, shatter ceasefire with Hamas

ISRAELI PM BENJAMIN NETANYAHU ORDERS STRIKES FOLLOWING HAMAS' REFUSAL TO ALTER THE TERMS OF THE TRUCE

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Israel launched a series of airstrikes across the Gaza Strip early Tuesday, killing more than 400 Palestinians, according to local health officials. The assault, which marked the deadliest bombardment in the 17-month war with Hamas, effectively ended a ceasefire that had been in place since January.

The strikes were ordered by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following Hamas' refusal to alter the terms of the truce. Israeli officials described the operation as open-ended and indicated that it would expand further. The White House confirmed that it had been consulted ahead of the strikes and expressed its support for Israel's actions.

The Israeli military instructed civilians to evacuate eastern Gaza and move toward central areas, signaling a potential resumption of ground operations. Aid organizations have warned that critical supplies, including food, medicine, and fuel, are running out after Israel cut off deliveries to Gaza's population of 2 million people two weeks ago. "Israel will, from now on, act against Hamas with increasing military strength," Netanyahu's office stated.

The timing of the attack, during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, has heightened fears of further escalation. The fate of about two dozen Israeli hostages believed to be alive in Hamas captivity remains uncertain.