War returns to Gaza: Israel strikes kill 400+ as ceasefire negotiations crumble

In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, Israel launched a fresh wave of airstrikes across Gaza on March 18, 2025, killing more than 400 people and injuring hundreds more. The strikes, which targeted Hamas leadership and infrastructure, also resulted in significant civilian casualties, including women and children. The renewed offensive comes just weeks after the first phase of a negotiated ceasefire had expired, with both sides blaming each other for its collapse.

The Israeli government had repeatedly warned of intensified operations, arguing that targeting Hamas leadership could pressure the group into releasing the remaining Israeli hostages. However, many families of those held captive by Hamas have voiced strong opposition to this strategy, fearing it could endanger their loved ones. The situation has reignited concerns about the feasibility of any lasting truce between the two sides, as diplomatic mediators struggle to find common ground.

How did ceasefire negotiations unravel?

The latest round of violence follows months of stop-start negotiations aimed at securing a long-term ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The first phase of the truce, which was brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States in early 2025, temporarily paused hostilities and facilitated the release of some Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. However, the second phase—intended to ensure a full Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza and the release of all remaining hostages—never materialized.

Israeli officials had proposed extending the initial ceasefire for an additional 30 to 60 days, allowing more time to negotiate further prisoner swaps. However, Hamas rejected the offer, demanding guarantees for a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces before agreeing to any further exchanges. The failure to bridge this gap led to accusations on both sides, with Israel claiming Hamas had broken the truce by halting hostage releases, while Hamas blamed Israel for stalling on commitments.

What is the impact of Israel’s latest offensive?

Israel’s latest strikes have primarily focused on areas of Gaza known to house Hamas leadership and military infrastructure, but they have also devastated civilian neighborhoods. The bombings targeted locations in Gaza City, Khan Younis, and Rafah, where thousands of displaced Palestinians had already sought refuge following previous rounds of conflict.

Medical facilities, which were already operating beyond capacity due to previous attacks, are struggling to treat the rising number of casualties. Reports from humanitarian organizations indicate that hospitals are running out of essential medical supplies, with shortages of anesthetics, antibiotics, and surgical equipment making it increasingly difficult to perform life-saving procedures. Power outages caused by the destruction of infrastructure have further complicated rescue efforts, leaving many injured individuals without immediate medical attention.

How has the international community responded?

The escalation has drawn strong reactions from world leaders and international organizations. The United Nations and multiple humanitarian groups have condemned the strikes, calling for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further civilian casualties. The European Union has urged Israel to reconsider its military approach, while key U.S. officials have reiterated their stance that both sides must work toward a sustainable resolution.

Egypt and Qatar, which played a central role in negotiating the previous ceasefire, have reopened diplomatic channels in an attempt to reestablish talks. However, with tensions at an all-time high, prospects for a quick resolution appear slim. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has signaled that operations will continue until Hamas agrees to release the remaining 59 hostages, while Hamas insists that any further discussions must guarantee an end to Israel’s military presence in Gaza.

What does this mean for the future of the conflict?

The abrupt breakdown of the ceasefire has cast doubt on the viability of diplomatic efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region. The conflict has now reached a point where each escalation reinforces deep-seated hostilities, making it increasingly difficult for either side to compromise. For Israeli leaders, military pressure on Hamas is seen as a necessary measure to secure the release of hostages and dismantle militant operations. For Hamas, continued resistance is framed as a fight for Palestinian sovereignty and an end to occupation.

With no clear resolution in sight, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is worsening, and the risk of broader regional instability is growing. The renewed fighting underscores the fragility of ceasefire agreements and highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive diplomatic strategy that addresses not just the immediate conflict, but the underlying political and humanitarian issues fueling it. As international mediators scramble to salvage negotiations, the people of Gaza remain caught in the crossfire, facing an increasingly dire reality with no immediate end in sight.