Israel resumed airstrikes on the Gaza Strip after a weeklong truce expired, marking a return to full-scale hostilities in the conflict with Hamas, AP News reports.
The airstrikes came minutes after the truce ended, with Israel dropping leaflets in southern Gaza, suggesting a potential escalation of its offensive. Israel pledged to achieve its war goals of releasing hostages, eliminating Hamas, and ensuring Gaza is no longer a threat to Israel.
Sirens warned of incoming rockets in Israeli communities near Gaza, indicating renewed attacks by militants. The renewed hostilities raised concerns for the around 140 hostages remaining in Gaza.
Negotiators, including Qatar and Egypt, were working to extend the ceasefire, but the situation remained precarious.
