Thu Mar 20 20:21:54 UTC 2025: ## Hamas Calls for Arab and Muslim Intervention as Israel’s Gaza Offensive Intensifies
**GAZA CITY** – Hamas issued an urgent plea to Arab and Muslim nations Thursday, demanding immediate action to halt Israel’s renewed offensive in Gaza, which it described as “genocide.” The renewed assault, launched Tuesday, has shattered a fragile ceasefire that had been in place since January 19th. Israel has confirmed a resumption of both air and ground operations, particularly in Rafah.
The Gaza civil defense agency reported a staggering death toll of 504 since the resumption of strikes, with over 190 victims being children. This makes it one of the deadliest periods in the conflict, which began over 17 months ago with Hamas’s attack on Israel.
Hamas’s statement directly implicates the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, arguing they bear the moral and political responsibility to end the violence. The group called for urgent action within international forums, including the UN Security Council, to pressure Israel to cease its operations.
The renewed offensive follows the collapse of negotiations to extend a previous ceasefire. While the initial phase secured the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, talks for a second phase broke down over the issue of remaining hostages. Israel insisted on their unconditional return before further negotiations, while Hamas demanded discussions on a broader second phase agreement. The intensified conflict has drawn widespread international condemnation.
First Piper 