Netanyahu Vows to Escalate Gaza Offensive as Ceasefire Efforts Stall
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to intensify military operations in Gaza, warning that the latest airstrikes—which killed over 400 Palestinians overnight—are “only the beginning.”
“This Is Only the Beginning” – Netanyahu
In a televised address, Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces will continue to strike Hamas with “increasing force.” He ruled out negotiations for a ceasefire unless they took place “under fire.”
“This is only the beginning,” he said. “We will continue to fight to achieve all our goals – the release of all our hostages, the elimination of Hamas, and ensuring that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel.”
Over 400 Killed as Ceasefire Collapses
The renewed Israeli bombardment follows the collapse of a fragile ceasefire that had been in place since January 19. The overnight airstrikes hit several areas across Gaza, including:
- Khan Younis and Rafah in the south
- Gaza City in the north
- Deir el-Balah in central Gaza
According to Gaza’s health ministry, at least 404 Palestinians, including children, were killed, and over 560 others injured. Entire families were wiped out as residential buildings were flattened.
Read More: Why Did Hamas Initiate An Attack Against Israel At This Time?
Ceasefire Talks in Deadlock
The escalation comes amid failed efforts to negotiate a second phase of a ceasefire deal, which aimed to:
- Secure the release of nearly 60 remaining Israeli captives
- Work towards a permanent truce
Israel rejected Hamas’ proposal last week to exchange:
- An American-Israeli dual national and bodies of four deceased captives
- In return for further negotiations and lifting the Israeli blockade
Previously, Hamas had released three dozen captives in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners under the first phase of the truce, which ended on March 1 after six weeks.
Netanyahu blamed Hamas for the deadlock, accusing them of rejecting a US-backed peace deal proposed by Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff.
“While Israel accepted the offer of President Trump’s special envoy, Hamas flatly refused to do so,” Netanyahu said.
Rising Civilian Toll and Humanitarian Crisis
As international condemnation grows, Netanyahu has urged Palestinians to distance themselves from Hamas:
“Palestinian civilians should avoid any contact with Hamas terrorists. I call on the people of Gaza—get out of harm’s way.”
The United Nations has warned of an intensifying humanitarian crisis, with severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.
Despite continued regional and international mediation, an immediate truce remains uncertain, with both sides firmly entrenched in their positions.
