According to Reuters, Israeli forces launched airstrikes after accusing Hamas of attacking Israeli troops stationed near the agreed deployment “yellow line.” Reports indicate that Israeli planes killed at least 26 people (including children) in the Gaza Strip, with strikes targeting a house in the Bureij refugee camp and a vehicle in Khan Younis.
President Trump addressed reporters, stating, “As I understand it, they took out an Israeli soldier. So the Israelis hit back, and they should hit back. When that happens, they should retaliate.” He emphasized, “Nothing is going to jeopardize the cease-fire.”
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced that he has ordered “powerful attacks.” Some Israeli sources suggest that the military may consider taking additional territory currently under Hamas control.
Legal experts note that any forcible seizure of territory raises serious questions under international law. According to the European Law and Autonomy Centre, “under no circumstances is it permissible to seize territory by force” in this context.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with at least one live blog reporting that over 100 people have been killed in recent strikes, including children.
This latest escalation tests the fragile cease-fire brokered by Trump earlier this month, which began on October 10. As Israel reasserts military pressure and the U.S. Administration indicates its support, international observers warn that the risk of a broader conflict and humanitarian collapse remains high.
