Israel continued its air strikes on Gaza on Wednesday following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s promise to intensify pressure on Hamas as prospects for a US-backed ceasefire diminished.
Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh accused Israel of sabotaging negotiations for a peace agreement and hostage release due to its reluctance to end the conflict.
The Israeli military reported conducting 25 strikes in 24 hours, targeting various terrorist structures and cells.
Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to eradicate Hamas, stating that now is the time to escalate pressure and achieve all military objectives.
Health officials in Gaza reported 52 fatalities, mostly women and children, due to Israeli airstrikes in the past day.
Numerous strikes across Gaza resulted in casualties, with 30 people killed in one targeted area.
– Talks Impasse –
Negotiations between Israel and Hamas remained deadlocked despite the efforts of mediators to broker a truce deal.
Hamas leaders blamed Israel for the lack of progress and accused them of avoiding a peaceful resolution.
The families of hostages held by Hamas urged Netanyahu to finalize a deal and bring their loved ones home.
– Hostage Families Appeal for Action –
Critics in Israel have accused Netanyahu of prolonging the conflict, and demonstrators have demanded swift action to secure the release of hostages.
Meanwhile, clashes erupted between ultra-Orthodox Jewish protesters and police near Tel Aviv in response to draft notices being issued to seminary students in the community.
As tensions escalate, Israel faces challenges in maintaining military manpower amid ongoing conflicts.
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