Israeli forces killed at least four Palestinians in Gaza on Thursday, following military claims of hitting a rocket launch site. The strikes targeted areas hours after a failed militant rocket launch, heightening tensions in the region.
According to local medics, an airstrike in western Khan Younis killed three people and wounded three others, including children, in a residential tent. Another strike east of the city claimed the life of one person near Israeli operational zones.
Israel has not immediately commented on the civilian casualties, while the military confirmed that it targeted a rocket launch site shortly after an unsuccessful attempt to reach Israeli territory. Officials accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire twice in the past 24 hours. Hamas sources are reportedly reviewing the claims.
The ceasefire, initially agreed in October, has stalled beyond its first phase. Under that agreement, major fighting ceased, Israel partially withdrew from Gaza, and Hamas released live hostages and human remains in exchange for detained Palestinians. However, little progress has been made on subsequent phases.
Under future plans, including a U.S.-backed initiative, Hamas is expected to disarm, Israel would further withdraw, and an internationally supported administration would rebuild Gaza. Despite these proposals, more than 400 Palestinians and three Israeli soldiers have been killed since the truce took effect. Nearly all of Gaza’s two million residents continue to live in damaged homes or temporary shelters.
Israel is awaiting the handover of the last Israeli body under the initial stage of the truce and has stated it will not advance to the next phase until this occurs. The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt remains closed, pending the return of the remaining Israeli hostage.
The ceasefire is increasingly fragile, with both Israel and Hamas accusing each other of major violations. Israel continues airstrikes and targeted operations, declaring that any attacks by Gaza militants are met with decisive action.
Meanwhile, Hamas reports over 1,100 Israeli ceasefire violations since October. These include killings, injuries, aerial and artillery strikes, home demolitions, and detentions. Hamas has refused to disarm, consolidating control over the territory. Israel warns that military action will resume if disarmament is not achieved peacefully.
The ongoing conflict stems from the October 7, 2023, Hamas assault on Israel, which killed approximately 1,200 people and resulted in 251 abductions. Since then, Israeli offensives in Gaza have killed more than 71,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s health ministry, highlighting the enduring humanitarian crisis in the region.
The fragile truce faces immense challenges as both sides remain far apart on future steps. International mediation and adherence to initial agreements will be critical to prevent further escalation and civilian suffering.
