An Israeli airstrike killed a Hamas leader in Gaza, further escalating the conflict, the militant group confirmed on Sunday that Salah al-Bardaweel and his wife were killed in an airstrike on Khan Younis, a city in southern Gaza. The Israeli military later confirmed the operation targeted a senior Hamas official, reinforcing the ongoing conflict.
More Ground Forces Mobilized as Fighting Resumes
Following two months of relative calm, Israel has intensified airstrikes in Gaza, effectively abandoning a ceasefire. The Israeli military announced the mobilization of additional ground forces, with the 36th Division preparing for operations in Gaza. Videos released by the Israeli army showed tanks being deployed, signaling a potential expansion of ground offensives.
Gaza Under Fire: Rising Death Toll and Humanitarian Crisis
Explosions were reported across northern, central, and southern Gaza as Israeli airstrikes targeted multiple locations. Health officials in Gaza confirmed that at least 40 Palestinians were killed in strikes on Rafah and Khan Younis on Sunday alone. The overall death toll from the war has now surpassed 50,000, according to Palestinian authorities.
The Israeli military defended its airstrikes in Gaza, stating it aims to minimize civilian casualties but questioned the death toll figures from Hamas-run health authorities. While most of the dead have been civilians, Israel claims that around 20,000 Hamas fighters have been eliminated. However, Hamas does not disclose casualty numbers.
Hamas Accuses Israel of Ceasefire Violation
Hamas accused Israel of violating the January ceasefire by refusing to enter negotiations for a permanent truce. Despite renewed hostilities, Hamas stated it is still open to negotiations and is considering “bridging” proposals from U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff.
Meanwhile, Israeli forces issued an evacuation warning for residents of Tel Al-Sultan in western Rafah, stating that the military encircled the area to dismantle terror infrastructure. Troops are reportedly allowing civilians to evacuate through organized routes.
Civilians Flee as Hunger Crisis Looms
Thousands of Palestinians are fleeing their homes, some on foot, others using donkey carts and rickshaws. Many, like Abu Khaled, a Rafah resident, expressed frustration: “Now we are fleeing under fire for maybe the 10th time. When will we ever rest? When will there be peace in this city?”
Humanitarian concerns are rising. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) warned that Gaza is on the brink of a severe hunger crisis. “Every day without food inches Gaza closer to an acute hunger crisis. Banning aid is collective punishment,” said UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarin.
On March 2, Israel blocked aid shipments to Gaza, accusing Hamas of diverting supplies—a charge Hamas denies. With food and medical supplies dwindling, international pressure is mounting for Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.
The Israeli airstrike that killed a Hamas leader in Gaza has further escalated the conflict, leading to renewed fighting. As Israel mobilizes more ground forces and Hamas accuses Israel of ceasefire violations, the humanitarian crisis worsens. With tens of thousands dead and civilians fleeing their homes, global attention is now on whether international diplomacy can halt the war.
