As Israel resumed airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, resulting in over 400 fatalities, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the effective resumption of hostilities on the 18th (local time) after a two-month ceasefire, foreign media reported. Concerns arise that Israel's reintroduction of ground troops into the Gaza Strip could exacerbate the war's devastation.
According to The Times of Israel (TOI), Netanyahu stated during a live TV broadcast, "This is just the beginning. From now on, negotiations will only take place amid battle," adding, "From now on, Israel will confront Hamas with greater military force."
Although Israel and Hamas had been in a ceasefire for two months, that was interrupted as Israel resumed airstrikes in the Gaza Strip. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, at least 413 people have been reported dead and 660 injured as a result of Israel's extensive airstrikes by the afternoon.
Channel 12 reported that Israel is also considering the reinitiation of ground operations. Israel indicated to Channel 12 that military operations could gradually intensify depending on future negotiations with Hamas.
The United States, which bombed Houthi rebel bases on this day, expressed its support for Israel's resumed airstrikes. White House Spokesperson Caroline Levitt noted during a briefing that "the Trump administration and the White House consulted with Israel regarding this airstrike," and she added, "All those who seek to terrorize the U.S. and Israel, such as Hamas, the Houthis, and Iran, will pay the price."