Israel Launches Retaliatory Strikes on Gaza Following Heavy Rocket Fire by Hamas
Tensions between Israel and Hamas escalated once again after Hamas launched one of its heaviest rocket attacks in months, prompting retaliatory air strikes by Israeli forces that have killed at least 56 Palestinians in the past 24 hours, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
The renewed violence comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu travels to Washington for high-stakes talks with US President Donald Trump, with the Gaza conflict and the fate of hostages still held by Hamas topping the agenda.
The Israeli military (IDF) said around 10 rockets were launched from central Gaza on Sunday night, with half intercepted and others landing in areas including Ashkelon, where one person was injured by debris. The IDF responded with a series of strikes, including targeting the launcher site in Deir al-Balah.
Journalist Among the Dead
Among the casualties was journalist Helmi al-Faqaawi, who was killed when an air strike hit a media tent in Khan Younis, sparking outrage among local and international media bodies. The Israel Defense Forces and Shin Bet claimed they targeted Hassan Eslaih, allegedly a Hamas member disguised as a journalist involved in the 7 October 2023 Hamas attack. This claim is yet to be independently verified.
The Palestinian Journalists Syndicate condemned the killing, describing it as a “massacre” and demanded international action to protect journalists in conflict zones.
Netanyahu Vows “Strong Response”
Netanyahu ordered a “strong response” while en route to meet Trump. Israel’s military campaign resumed after a breakdown in ceasefire talks, with both sides blaming each other for failing to uphold terms previously agreed.
Footage from Ashkelon captured the chaotic scenes of rockets lighting up the night sky and explosions near residential buildings. While Hamas claims its attack was in retaliation for “massacres of civilians,” Israel reiterated its right to self-defense.
Mounting Death Toll and Global Reactions
Since the war began following Hamas’s 7 October 2023 attack—which killed around 1,200 Israelis and saw 251 hostages taken—the Gaza death toll has surpassed 50,750, according to local authorities.
Amid the violence, French President Emmanuel Macron held talks with Egyptian President al-Sisi and Jordan’s King Abdullah II in Cairo, condemning the renewed Israeli strikes and urging a sustainable ceasefire. Macron also emphasized that Hamas should not be part of any future Gaza governance, advocating instead for the internationally backed Palestinian Authority.
With the conflict once again intensifying, and no signs of a long-term ceasefire, pressure mounts on international leaders to broker peace while avoiding further humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.
