The Impressive TimesIsrael launched a series of airstrikes on Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon on Tuesday, citing Hamas’ refusal to release hostages. The strikes, which Israel called an “extensive military operation,” resulted in the deaths of over 200 people, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. The attacks mark one of the deadliest escalations in the region since the last ceasefire.
The Israeli military confirmed the strikes in a Telegram post, stating that they were targeting “terror infrastructure” belonging to Hamas in Gaza. The military added that Hamas’ repeated refusal to release Israeli hostages had forced Israel to take strong retaliatory action. The strikes also targeted sites in Syria and Lebanon, which Israel claims were being used by Hamas and allied groups to launch attacks.
Eyewitnesses in Gaza reported massive explosions as Israeli fighter jets bombed multiple locations, including residential areas, suspected militant hideouts, and government buildings. Videos circulating on social media showed plumes of smoke rising from the densely populated areas of Gaza City. Palestinian emergency response teams worked to rescue civilians trapped under the rubble. The Palestinian Health Ministry stated that among the casualties were women and children, and hundreds more had been injured.
In Lebanon, Hezbollah condemned the strikes, warning of “serious consequences” if Israel continued its military operations in the region. The Syrian government also issued a statement calling the attacks an “act of aggression” and urged the international community to intervene.
The airstrikes come amid growing international pressure on Israel and Hamas to reach a resolution regarding the hostages taken during the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israeli territory. The United Nations and several world leaders have urged both sides to de-escalate tensions, warning that the situation could spiral into a wider regional conflict.
Meanwhile, protests erupted in multiple cities, including in the West Bank, where demonstrators condemned Israel’s military actions. In Tel Aviv, families of Israeli hostages called on the government to prioritize negotiations over military strikes, fearing that continued violence could endanger their loved ones.
The Israeli military has indicated that the strikes may continue in the coming days, depending on Hamas’ response.
No Comments: