New Delhi: Tensions between Israel and Hamas escalated dramatically on Tuesday as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the Palestinian militant group of breaching a US-brokered ceasefire and failing to return hostages’ bodies, prompting orders for intensified airstrikes on Gaza.
In a stern statement from his office, Netanyahu alleged that Hamas violated the truce by firing shots in southern Gaza and submitting partial remains of a hostage that Israel had already recovered two years ago. “Hamas has broken the ceasefire and betrayed the agreement on returning hostages,” Netanyahu fumed during a security cabinet meeting, directing the military to launch “immediate and powerful” operations in the Gaza Strip.
The controversy erupted after Hamas claimed on Monday to have handed over the body of the 16th hostage out of 28. However, Israeli forensic checks revealed these were remnants of a previously returned captive, sparking outrage. Netanyahu’s office labelled it a “clear violation” of the deal, aimed at halting hostilities in the region.
In retaliation, Hamas’ armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, announced a suspension of the scheduled hostage body handover on Tuesday evening, citing Israel’s alleged ceasefire breaches. The group warned that continued attacks could hinder future recoveries and searches for remains.
The United States mediated a fragile truce to curb violence between Israel and Gaza, but it now hangs precariously as both sides trade blame. Netanyahu is set to convene top security officials for further deliberations on the crisis, amid fears of renewed full-scale conflict.