Tue Mar 18 20:11:00 UTC 2025: ## Israel Launches Devastating Gaza Strikes; Netanyahu Vows More to Come
**GAZA CITY/JERUSALEM** – Israel launched a massive wave of airstrikes on Gaza Tuesday, killing over 400 people according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the attacks only the beginning of a renewed offensive, vowing to continue military action until all hostages seized by Hamas in October are returned.
The strikes, the largest since a January truce, have drawn international condemnation from the UN and numerous countries. Families of the remaining 58 Israeli hostages held in Gaza have urged Netanyahu to halt the violence, fearing for their loved ones’ safety. The Israeli military claims 34 of the 251 originally taken are dead.
Netanyahu, in a televised address, insisted the military action is solely focused on securing the hostages’ release and dismissed accusations that the renewed offensive is politically motivated. He stated that negotiations will now only occur “under fire,” emphasizing the importance of military pressure.
Hamas, which has yet to retaliate militarily, accused Israel of attempting to force its surrender. Critics within Israel accuse Netanyahu of prolonging the conflict for political gain, ignoring the risks to the hostages’ lives. Netanyahu has rejected calls for a national inquiry into the October attack and faced a recent political crisis over an attempt to dismiss a top security official. The escalating situation raises grave concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the prospects for peace.
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