Israel-Hamas Truce Shatters After Nine Days, Rafah Airstrikes Kill 33, Netanyahu Calls Emergency Meeting

International News:  The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas lasted barely nine days. Israel accused Hamas of attacking its soldiers in Rafah city using rocket-propelled grenades and sniper fire. In retaliation, the Israeli army carried out deadly airstrikes on southern Gaza. At least 33 people were killed, and many others injured. The fragile peace quickly crumbled, reigniting fear across the region.

Attack on Israeli Soldiers

Officials confirmed that the attack took place outside the “yellow line,” a boundary where Israeli troops were supposed to withdraw under the truce. Two soldiers were killed, and three were wounded in the assault. Israel said the attack proved Hamas had no respect for the ceasefire terms. This violation, they argued, forced Israel to respond with military action.

Netanyahu Holds Emergency Meeting

In response, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called an emergency meeting with the defense minister and army chief. The discussion focused on launching stronger operations against militant bases in Gaza. Netanyahu declared that Israel would not tolerate such provocations any longer. He also vowed that the deaths of Israeli soldiers would not go unanswered.

Hamas Denies Responsibility

Hamas, however, denied carrying out the attack. Senior leader Izzat al-Rishq said Hamas was still honoring the ceasefire. He accused Israel of fabricating excuses to justify its strikes on Gaza. According to Hamas, the attacks were part of Israel’s aggressive agenda against innocent civilians. This denial deepened confusion and further fueled mistrust on both sides.

US Issues a Warning

The US State Department released a report warning that Hamas was planning imminent attacks on civilians in Gaza. It labeled this a violation of the ceasefire. Washington stated it would take “necessary measures” to protect civilians and preserve the truce, though it did not specify what those steps would be. The warning raised international concern over escalating violence.

Rafah Crossing Closed

Netanyahu announced that the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt would remain shut until further notice. He said it would not reopen until Hamas returned the bodies of Israeli hostages. This decision crushed hopes after the Palestinian embassy earlier claimed the crossing would reopen on Monday. Thousands of civilians are now stranded, facing worsening humanitarian conditions.

Tensions Rise Again

The situation in Gaza has once again turned tense and uncertain. Residents live under constant fear as airstrikes devastate Rafah. Israeli forces continue their operations, while Hamas denies involvement in the truce violation. The ceasefire hopes lie in ruins, and violence may spiral further. The world is closely watching, with Gaza once again at the center of global concern.