Israel-Gaza latest: Netanyahu’s military strikes targets near hospital leaving ceasefire in tatters
Israeli forces have launched strikes in Gaza after prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the military to carry out immediate “powerful” attacks, according to reports.
Gaza’s civil defence said at least two people have been killed and four people are injured after Israel struck a neighbourhood south of Gaza City.
Witnesses have reported that Israel targeted an area near Shifa hospital, the largest operational hospital in northern Gaza, as explosions have been heard in various areas.
Mr Netanyahu commanded the military to carry out the strikes after Israel said that Hamas had opened fire at Israeli forces in Rafah on Tuesday. Hamas has denied any involvement.
Officials accused Hamas of breaching the ceasefire agreement after it returned the body of a deceased hostage, which was revealed to be the additional remains of Ofir Tzarfati, a hostage who had already been recovered and buried in 2023.
Mr Netanyahu said the transfer was a “clear violation” of the agreement, and subsequently held a security assessment with defence officials to discuss a response.
Hamas postponed the return of a hostage’s body on Tuesday evening after Israel announced its plans to strike.
