Escalating Tensions: Israeli Strikes in Gaza Amid Fragile Ceasefire

Israeli strikes in Gaza have killed key figures from Hamas and Islamic Jihad, escalating tensions amid a ceasefire. The strikes, condemned by Hamas as ceasefire violations, coincided with ongoing disputes between Israel and Hamas about the ceasefire agreement. Hundreds have died since the ceasefire's start.

In a stark escalation of violence, Israeli airstrikes targeted key figures in Gaza on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of several high-profile members from Hamas and Islamic Jihad. Local sources confirm at least ten fatalities, including senior Islamic Jihad operative Ashraf Al-Khatib and a Hamas policeman.

The strikes came shortly after the United States heralded the second phase of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. However, the ceasefire remains fragile as both sides accuse each other of violations. The Israeli military has not commented on the latest incidents.

Since the ceasefire's inception in October, over 400 Palestinians and three Israeli soldiers have died. Most of Gaza's residents are displaced, living in precarious conditions following recent conflicts. International concerns grow as civilian casualties, including children, rise dramatically in the ongoing conflict.

(With inputs from agencies.)