Israel Consulted US Before Deadly Gaza Airstrikes, Confirms White House
The White House has confirmed that Israel consulted the United States before launching its latest round of airstrikes on Gaza, marking one of the deadliest attacks since the collapse of the ceasefire.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told Fox News that the Trump administration was informed about the strikes beforehand. Palestinian medical sources reported dozens of casualties in the densely populated enclave, as tensions continue to escalate.
Hamas Accuses Israel of Violating Ceasefire
A senior Hamas official accused Israel of breaking the truce, further intensifying the conflict. Leavitt reiterated Trump’s stance, warning that Hamas, the Houthis, and Iran would “pay a price” for their actions. Trump previously stated that Hamas must release all hostages or face severe consequences.
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Background: Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis
The latest violence stems from Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which left 1,200 people dead and led to the abduction of around 250 hostages. In retaliation, Israel’s military offensive in Gaza has reportedly killed over 48,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s health ministry. The war has also displaced nearly 2.3 million people, pushing the region into a severe humanitarian crisis.
Despite mounting concerns from human rights groups and the United Nations, Israel denies allegations of war crimes and genocide.
US Launches Airstrikes in Yemen
Meanwhile, Washington carried out fresh airstrikes in Yemen, targeting the Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The U.S. military claimed the attacks killed dozens of fighters, while the Houthis reported at least 53 casualties.
The Houthis have launched over 100 attacks on commercial shipping routes in the Red Sea since November 2023, citing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.
Trump’s Controversial Plans for Gaza
Trump has proposed a controversial plan for Gaza, which includes the relocation of Palestinian civilians and the redevelopment of the enclave under U.S. supervision. The plan has been widely criticized, with the U.N. and Arab states warning that such measures could amount to ethnic cleansing.