Israel Announces Return to Gaza Ceasefire After Deadly Escalation; Defense Minister Vows Retaliation Against Hamas

With the death toll rising to nearly 100 people in the Gaza Strip, including about 30 children, following recent Israeli airstrikes, the Israeli Army announced on Wednesday the resumption of the fragile ceasefire agreement.

Ceasefire Confirmation and Threat of Retaliation

• Implementing the Agreement: The Israeli Army confirmed in a statement that its forces "will continue to implement the Gaza agreement," but stressed at the same time that they "will respond forcefully to any violation."

• Targeting Hamas Leaders: The military noted it "targeted more than 30 armed militants at command levels in Gaza," and struck dozens of the movement's military structures since yesterday.

• Decisive Statements: Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz warned that "there is no immunity for any of the leaders of the Hamas movement," affirming that anyone who attacks his country's soldiers and violates the agreement "will pay the full price."

Background of the Escalation and Mutual Accusations

• Casualties: Palestinian health institutions announced that the recent intense Israeli airstrikes resulted in the deaths of 100 people, including about 30 children, since last night, marking the latest test for the agreement mediated by US President Donald Trump.

• Initial Clashes: Israel claimed yesterday (Tuesday) that Hamas violated the ceasefire after clashes erupted between militants and Israeli forces in Rafah, southern Gaza, leading to the death of an Israeli soldier.

• Denial and Responsibility: Hamas denied involvement in any clashes in Rafah, affirmed its commitment to the truce, and held Israel fully responsible for the escalation and attempts to undermine the ceasefire.

• Pressure for Hostage Return: Other Israeli sources reported that Israeli forces exerted pressure on Hamas to return the bodies of two hostages they claimed to have found yesterday.

US Position

US President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance insisted that the Gaza agreement remains in effect, despite the reported violations.