Israel said it had begun reinforcing the ceasefire in Gaza after launching overnight air strikes in response to a deadly Palestinian ambush that killed one of its soldiers.
The escalation is one of the most serious flare-ups since the October 10 ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which US President Donald Trump described as a first step toward stabilising the war-ravaged region.
Despite the renewed violence, both sides are under pressure to uphold the truce amid international calls for restraint and rising concern over civilian casualties.
Israeli strikes follow ambush on troops
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered what he called “forceful strikes” on Hamas targets after the fatal ambush on Israeli forces.
The Israeli Defence Forces said the strikes were intended to deter further attacks and dismantle militant infrastructure.
According to the official Palestinian news agency, 91 people, including 24 children, were killed across multiple areas in Gaza.
Israel’s military said its operations were precise and proportional, but the heavy civilian toll has intensified diplomatic pressure and international criticism.
Trump defends Israel during Asia visit
President Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One while travelling from Japan to South Korea, defended Israel’s right to retaliate.
He expressed confidence that the truce, brokered earlier this month, would remain intact despite the flare-up.
“The Israelis hit back, and they should hit back,” he told reporters, reinforcing Washington’s longstanding support for Israel’s security.
His remarks came as regional mediators scrambled to preserve the ceasefire and prevent wider escalation.
It’s also noted that President Trump confirmed that the cease-fire is still active despite reported violations.
Economic stability tied to ceasefire’s success
Beyond the military and humanitarian dimensions, the ceasefire’s sustainability is also linked to Israel’s economic recovery.
According to an analysis by Invezz, the Bank of Israel forecasted output growth of around 2.5% for 2025, with faster expansion expected if stability continues into 2026.
The report emphasised that a prolonged truce could restore investor confidence, support infrastructure rebuilding, and strengthen regional trade partnerships.
The recent escalation, however, risks undermining these economic gains and could stall ongoing recovery efforts.
Moreover, the US has launched a fresh diplomatic push aimed at shoring up the truce and preventing its collapse.
Civilian casualties heighten pressure on truce
The overnight strikes have placed greater strain on the fragile ceasefire.
Humanitarian agencies warn that Gaza’s worsening power outages, water shortages, and medical supply gaps could spiral into a deeper crisis.
Israeli officials said they remain committed to the ceasefire but will “act decisively” against future attacks.
Palestinian authorities have accused Israel of violating the truce terms, arguing that the strikes exacerbate humanitarian suffering and delay international aid efforts.
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