Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered a series of powerful new airstrikes on Gaza, accusing Hamas of violating the fragile ceasefire that had briefly paused 18 months of fighting. The strikes, which began at dawn, targeted what Israel described as Hamas command centers and rocket-launching sites in northern and central Gaza. Palestinian health officials reported at least 47 deaths, including women and children, and widespread damage to residential areas. The renewed bombardment comes just 72 hours after the truce took effect, shattering hopes for a sustained de-escalation.

The military escalation unfolds against the backdrop of Netanyahu’s ongoing corruption trial in Jerusalem, where he faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. Despite public appeals from U.S. President Donald Trump for leniency and a postponement of legal proceedings during the crisis, Israeli courts rejected the request, insisting the rule of law must proceed independently. Netanyahu has framed the Gaza operation as a necessary defense of Israeli security, but critics argue the timing serves to rally domestic support amid his legal troubles.

Complicating matters further, the strikes appear to violate terms of a U.S.-brokered peace framework that explicitly demanded an immediate ceasefire and mutual restraint from all parties. With American forces now overseeing Gaza’s border security and reconstruction under the deal, the Biden administration has warned of potential sanctions, including cuts to military aid. Senior U.S. officials stated that any unilateral escalation could trigger a formal review of Israel’s compliance, placing Netanyahu at risk of direct confrontation with Washington at a moment when transatlantic ties are already strained.