Israel launched extensive strikes on Gaza on Saturday, part of a new offensive aimed at achieving all objectives, including releasing abducted hostages and defeating Hamas. The operation, known as “Operation Gideon’s Chariots,” comes amid pressure to lift an aid blockade in exchange for the release of US-Israeli hostages.
The Israeli military has resumed its fighting in Gaza, which began on March 18 after a two-month truce triggered by a Palestinian attack in October 2023. Since then, over 2,000 people have been killed in Gaza, with the overall toll rising to 53,119. The health ministry reported that 57 hostages remain in Gaza, including 34 who are reportedly dead.
The military has targeted over 150 terror targets in Gaza, with strikes killing 100 people on Friday. The offensive is part of a plan approved by the government earlier this month, and Israeli media reported an escalation in fighting without a formal announcement.
Source: https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2025/05/17/israeli-military-says-it-is-launching-new-phase-of-gaza-offensive_6741367_4.html