Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided to resume Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, breaking the ceasefire agreement with Hamas, which was initially brokered in January 2025. This move follows internal political pressure and a standoff over the release of hostages, ultimately leading Netanyahu to abandon the second phase of the ceasefire deal.

BulletsIn

• Israeli airstrikes resumed on March 18, 2025, breaking the ceasefire with Hamas and resulting in hundreds of Palestinian casualties.
• Netanyahu faced political pressure from far-right coalition partners, who opposed the ceasefire and called for the destruction of Hamas.
• U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration supported Netanyahu’s decision to break the ceasefire.
• Israel and the U.S. blame Hamas for the failure to proceed with negotiations, accusing the group of preparing new attacks.
• Hamas denies the accusations, instead calling for the immediate launch of talks on the second phase of the ceasefire.
• The ceasefire’s first phase saw the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners but was marred by both sides accusing each other of violations.
• Netanyahu has repeatedly cast doubt on the possibility of a lasting ceasefire, stating Israel’s goal is the annihilation of Hamas.
• Resuming the conflict ensures Netanyahu’s political survival, maintaining support from far-right allies in his coalition.
• Netanyahu’s decision to resume strikes is seen as a way to avoid a political crisis and prevent losing the backing of his right-wing base.
• The U.S. White House supported Israel’s decision to resume strikes, consulting with Netanyahu before the escalation.