Israel has launched its most intense airstrikes on Gaza since January after Hamas refused to release more hostages. The IDF, under orders from Prime Minister Netanyahu, is ramping up military action in a campaign that’s already left hundreds dead and injured in the terrorist stronghold.
At a glance:
• Israel launched heavy airstrikes against Hamas after the terrorist group refused to release remaining hostages
• Over 400 Palestinians have been reported killed in the strikes, which Israeli officials say target Hamas commanders and infrastructure
• Netanyahu’s office stated Israel will “act against Hamas with increasing military strength” following the failed negotiations
• US Presidential Envoy Steven Witkoff’s mediation efforts, along with negotiators from Egypt and Qatar, were unsuccessful
• Intelligence sources estimate Hamas still holds 24 living hostages and the remains of 35 others from their October 7 terror attack
Netanyahu Orders Intensified Military Campaign
The Israeli military has resumed its offensive against Hamas terrorists after the Palestinian group refused to extend a ceasefire agreement and release more hostages. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz instructed the IDF to take “strong action” against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, signaling a new phase in Israel’s campaign to eliminate the terrorist organization.
As Hamas plays games, Israel is doubling down.
The airstrikes have reportedly killed more than 400 Palestinians in Gaza, marking the deadliest day since the temporary truce began in January. The Prime Minister’s office issued a clear statement on their strategy moving forward: “Israel will, from now on, act against Hamas with increasing military strength.”
Israel launched its most intense wave of airstrikes on Gaza since the January ceasefire, blaming Hamas for failed hostage negotiations. The escalation comes as regional tensions flare, with Israeli strikes reported in Lebanon and Syria as well. https://t.co/haIf2xoJxD
— FOX 13 Seattle (@fox13seattle) March 18, 2025
The renewed military campaign follows months of negotiations that ultimately failed when Hamas refused to release more Israeli hostages. Evacuation orders were issued for several Gaza neighborhoods before the strikes, which targeted Hamas commanders and infrastructure according to Israeli officials.
Failed Negotiations and Hostage Crisis
Mediation efforts led by US envoy Steve Witkoff along with Egyptian and Qatari negotiators failed to produce an agreement acceptable to both sides. Israel had demanded Hamas release half of the remaining hostages for further truce talks, while Hamas insisted on the original ceasefire terms that included a staged Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Intelligence sources estimate that Hamas still holds 24 living Israeli hostages and the remains of 35 others captured during their October 7, 2023 surprise attack. That horrific assault saw Hamas terrorists murder approximately 1,200 Israelis and take over 250 hostages back to Gaza.
“Hamas could have released hostages to extend the ceasefire but instead chose refusal and war,” said White House spokesperson Brian Hughes in a statement supporting Israel’s right to defend itself. The Biden administration confirmed that Israel consulted with the United States before launching the strikes.
When will Hamas learn that playing silly nasty games wins them nasty prizes?
