Sirens blared in southern Israel one hour before the truce was set to end as the aerial defense system intercepted rocketfire from Gaza. Fighting resumed between Israel and Hamas, despite efforts to extend a week-long ceasefire. The Israeli Defense Force (IDF) accused Hamas of breaching the ceasefire, prompting the resumption of combat operations against the terror group.
Firing was reported in northwest Gaza, the focus of Israel’s ground offensive, shortly after the truce expired. Clashes spread to other areas, including near the Netzarim Junction in central Gaza. Negotiators from Egypt and Qatar had been working to extend the truce for an additional two days, aiming to facilitate the release of hostages and prisoners, as well as the delivery of aid into the strip.
Israeli officials maintained that the release of Israeli hostages by Hamas was a condition for extending the pause in fighting. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized that Israel should be prepared for the possibility of full-scale war at any moment. Hamas, in response, asked its fighters to remain on high alert. Alongside these developments, additional Palestinian prisoners were freed by Israel, while Hamas released more Israeli hostages under a last-minute agreement.
Despite the clashes and hostilities, efforts to deliver aid to the people of Gaza continued during the ceasefire, with trucks carrying essential supplies reaching the enclave from Egypt. The Biden administration expressed support for Israel’s right to defend itself but also urged caution to avoid repeating a wide assault that could impact millions of Palestinians.