Israel’s defense minister has warned that the country will intensify its attacks on Hamas unless the Palestinian group releases more of the dozens of remaining captives. The warning comes after a two-month cease-fire with Hamas collapsed, leading to renewed airstrikes and ground operations in Gaza.
More than 500 Palestinians have been killed since the offensive began on Tuesday, according to the Gaza health ministry. Israel has seized more territory in Gaza and is preparing to expand its security zone unless Hamas cooperates by releasing more hostages.
The Israeli military shot down two missiles aimed at southern Israel, but there were no immediate reports of any heavy casualties. Hamas said negotiations to return to the truce were still ongoing, but the group reiterated that any agreement would have to lead to a permanent end to the war.
Israel has blocked humanitarian aid to Gaza, preventing shipments of food and medicine from reaching Palestinians. The country’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has faced domestic criticism for his handling of the war.
Diplomats, including those from the United States, are hoping to broker at least a partial deal to bring both sides back to the cease-fire and allow humanitarian aid to begin flowing into Gaza again. A proposal by the Trump administration’s Mideast envoy suggests an extension of the initial cease-fire in exchange for the release of hostages.
Hamas has confirmed the deaths of at least five senior officials in its Gaza leadership since the offensive began. The group’s military response to renewed Israeli attacks has been limited, and it is still believed to command tens of thousands of armed fighters.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/21/world/middleeast/israel-hamas-gaza-hostages.html