20 Killed in Israeli Strikes as Israel and Hamas Trade Blame Over Truce

Escalation after fragile cease‑fire

Violence erupted again this week despite a tenuous cease‑fire that had been brokered only weeks earlier. Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip killed twenty people, including women and children, while Hamas rockets landed in southern Israel, prompting further retaliation.

Both sides point fingers

Israeli officials blamed Hamas for violating the truce by launching rockets toward Israeli territory, saying the attacks forced the military to respond in order to protect civilians. Hamas, on the other hand, accused Israel of deliberately targeting humanitarian sites and breaking the agreement by continuing its offensive.

Human toll continues to rise

Since the cease‑fire was announced, the conflict has already claimed the lives of hundreds of Palestinians and at least three Israeli soldiers. The latest round of strikes adds to a growing list of casualties and deepens the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where hospitals are struggling to cope with the influx of injured patients.

International reaction

UN officials urged both parties to respect the terms of the truce and to halt all attacks that endanger civilians. Several countries called for an immediate de‑escalation and the reopening of humanitarian corridors to deliver essential aid.

Outlook

With the death toll climbing and accusations flying, the prospect of a lasting peace remains uncertain. Analysts warn that without a clear commitment from both Israel and Hamas to uphold the cease‑fire, further cycles of violence are likely to continue.