Israeli Airstrikes on Gaza Strip Result in Multiple Casualties Amid Ceasefire Tensions

Gaza’s Civil Defense reported that a series of Israeli airstrikes struck various locations across the Gaza Strip on Saturday, leading to at least 22 fatalities and numerous injuries. Mahmoud Bassal, spokesperson for Gaza’s Civil Defense, confirmed that among the deceased was a commander from the al-Qassam Brigades, the armed faction of Hamas.

An anonymous Hamas official conveyed that the group has communicated its strong condemnation of the ongoing Israeli strikes to regional mediators. The official emphasized that Hamas, alongside other Palestinian factions, has been abiding by the current ceasefire agreement despite the continued hostilities.

The source urged mediators to act swiftly to prevent the disintegration of the ceasefire, warning that Israel’s sustained military actions and the perceived insufficient pressure from the United States risk destabilizing the fragile peace. "We remain committed to the ceasefire," the statement said, "but Israel’s persistent killings in the enclave imperil the situation and could lead to severe consequences."

Local medical sources reported widespread casualties following Israeli military operations targeting multiple sectors of the coastal territory on Saturday afternoon.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) released a statement confirming the completion of an operation targeting 17 militants who emerged from a tunnel in eastern Rafah, southern Gaza. The IDF reported that 11 militants were killed during this maneuver.

Since the ceasefire was implemented in October, Israeli attacks have caused 318 fatalities and 788 injuries according to Gaza health authorities. The overall death toll since October 7, 2023, stands at 69,733, with injuries reaching 170,863.

The ongoing violence underscores the volatile state of the ceasefire and raises urgent questions about the efficacy of mediation efforts to maintain peace in the region.