Dozens Reported Killed as Netanyahu Orders Strikes

Overnight Israeli airstrikes across Gaza killed a large and rising number of people, with casualty tallies reported variously as at least 33, about 81, and around 100–101 dead, including many children, and many more wounded taken to multiple hospitals. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the strikes after accusing Hamas of firing on Israeli troops and killing a soldier and alleging mishandling of a hostage’s remains; Hamas denied responsibility and said it remained committed to the truce. Hospitals and medics reported strikes hit tents of displaced people, homes and areas near hospitals, describing the situation as catastrophic and warning numbers are likely to rise. The Israeli military said it would return to the truce while warning it would respond to violations and has outlined plans to reinforce a de facto dividing “yellow line” in Gaza. U.S. President Donald Trump publicly defended Israel’s right to “hit back” and said the ceasefire he helped broker would not be jeopardized, while U.S. officials including Vice President J.D. Vance said the ceasefire remained in effect despite mutual accusations. The strikes highlighted the fragility of the weeks‑old ceasefire and ongoing disputes over hostages and the return of bodies.