Israeli Airstrikes Hit Gaza Following Netanyahu’s Orders for “Powerful Response”

Date: 29 October 2025

Israeli fighter jets launched airstrikes in northern Gaza early Tuesday after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directed the military to carry out “powerful attacks” in response to what he described as a ceasefire violation by Hamas.

Palestinian officials reported that at least two people were killed and four others injured when a residential building in Gaza City’s Sabra neighbourhood was struck. Another explosion was reported near Al-Shifa Hospital — the largest functioning medical facility in northern Gaza.

The U.S.-brokered ceasefire, which took effect on 10 October, had temporarily halted nearly two years of hostilities that began after Hamas’s 7 October 2023 attack on Israel. However, both sides have since accused each other of violating the terms of the agreement.

According to an Israeli military spokesperson, the latest strikes were launched after Hamas fighters allegedly attacked Israeli forces in a Gaza area under Israeli control — an act Israel described as “a blatant violation of the ceasefire.” Hamas has denied responsibility, stating it remains committed to the truce.

Netanyahu also accused Hamas of failing to comply with the humanitarian provisions of the ceasefire, including the return of hostages’ remains. He claimed that the group had delivered “incorrect remains” during handovers. Under the agreement, Hamas was to release all surviving hostages in exchange for the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees and an Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza.

The dispute over the return of hostages’ remains has emerged as a significant obstacle to maintaining the fragile truce. Gaza health authorities report that more than 68,000 people have been killed in Israeli operations since the conflict began, while thousands remain missing. Israel maintains that Hamas continues to hold most of the hostages’ remains.

Analysis:
The renewed airstrikes highlight the fragility of the Gaza ceasefire and raise fears of a wider escalation in the region. International mediators are expected to intensify efforts to restore calm as tensions continue to mount.