Tensions between Israel and Hamas have sharply increased after Israel launched airstrikes on southern Gaza. The strikes came hours after Israel accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire agreement that was meant to stop months of fighting. This sudden escalation has raised fears of another major conflict in the region.

Ceasefire Under Pressure

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was put in place to bring temporary calm to both sides. For weeks, there had been a noticeable reduction in violence. But on Sunday, Israeli officials said Hamas fighters carried out what they called a “bold violation” by firing rockets toward Israeli territory. The rockets reportedly landed in open areas, causing no injuries, but the act broke the truce.

In response, Israel’s military confirmed it carried out airstrikes on what it described as “Hamas military sites” in the southern part of the Gaza Strip. Explosions were reported in several areas, and videos shared online showed smoke rising from buildings.

Israel’s Statement

In a statement, Israeli defense officials said the country “will not tolerate any attack against its people” and that Hamas was “fully responsible” for the consequences of its actions. They added that the airstrikes were a “necessary response” to protect Israeli civilians and prevent further attacks.

Israel also warned that if Hamas continues its attacks, the military is prepared to expand operations. Officials said the ceasefire will not be meaningful if one side continues to violate it.

Hamas’ Response

Hamas leaders have denied intentionally breaking the ceasefire. A spokesperson said the group was responding to what they described as Israeli “provocations” in Jerusalem and the West Bank. They accused Israel of trying to shift blame and of using the rocket fire as an excuse for fresh strikes on Gaza.

“The Israeli occupation bears full responsibility for the consequences of this aggression,” the spokesperson said.

Humanitarian Concerns

The renewed violence has caused fear and uncertainty among civilians in Gaza, who have already experienced years of conflict. Many families rushed to seek shelter as the airstrikes hit near their neighborhoods. Aid groups have expressed concern that the fighting could disrupt humanitarian relief operations and worsen living conditions in Gaza, where many people rely on international aid for survival.

The United Nations and several countries have called on both sides to return to calm and respect the ceasefire. “We urge all parties to avoid further escalation and protect civilian lives,” a UN statement said.

Growing International Attention

This latest development has drawn international attention as diplomats work to prevent the situation from turning into another large-scale war. Several countries, including Egypt and Qatar, which helped broker previous ceasefires, are reportedly in contact with both sides to restore calm.

For now, both Israelis and Palestinians face an uncertain future. Many hope that leaders on both sides will choose to return to negotiations rather than allow another deadly cycle of violence to begin.