Israel Launches Airstrikes in Rafah, Southern Gaza, Sparking Concerns of Ceasefire Collapse

Israel carried out airstrikes on Sunday in Rafah and other areas of southern Gaza, according to Israeli media. Channel 12 reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defence Minister Israel Katz, and army officials held a phone call discussing the situation. The public broadcaster said the strike followed an "exchange of fire" with Hamas members.

Ceasefire Strains and Civilian Casualties

The October 10 ceasefire between Israel and Hamas temporarily paused the two-year-long conflict, but tensions are rising after the hostage exchange concluded. The United States claimed to have "credible information" suggesting Hamas planned attacks on Gazans, though Hamas denied the claim. Palestinian officials reported multiple violations of the truce by Israeli forces.

Gaza's civil defence reported that on Friday, a tank shell fired into the Zeitoun neighborhood of Gaza City killed 11 civilians. Among them were seven children and three women who could have been warned prior to the shelling, according to spokesperson Mahmoud Basal. These incidents have increased fears that the fragile truce could collapse.

Netanyahu Hints at Next Phase

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the Gaza war will "truly end" only once Hamas has been disarmed, signaling a potential 'Phase B' of military operations. His comments suggest Israel may resume military activity, raising international concern over the durability of the ceasefire and the safety of civilians in Gaza.