TEL AVIV - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday afternoon ordered "immediate and intensive" attacks by the Israeli military in the Gaza Strip, according to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office. The decision came after a meeting of the security cabinet, and according to an official statement, it is a direct response to incidents that the Israeli side has described as violations of the ceasefire.

The Israeli military stated that its units in the area of Rafah, in southern Gaza, came under fire and responded with artillery and air strikes. News reports indicate that explosions and gunfire have been reported in several parts of the Gaza Strip, particularly east of Khan Younis and in the vicinity of Rafah. These incidents are putting significant strain on the mediated ceasefire agreement, which came into effect on October 10.

In addition, tensions have been heightened by the controversial transfer of remains of hostages. Israel announced that the terrorist organization Hamas had transferred parts of remains that were later identified as already being identified or were incorrectly attributed – a situation that Israeli officials have described as a "clear violation" of the agreement to return bodies. In response, Hamas stated that it is postponing the planned transfer of another body, claiming that Israeli escalation would make it more difficult to search for and excavate in the tunnels where the remains are allegedly located.

International mediators and humanitarian organizations are warning that repeated incidents could quickly unravel the fragile calm that has been achieved. According to the AP, diplomatic efforts are still underway to keep the agreement for the exchange of prisoners and remains alive, while both sides accuse each other of violations. Humanitarian organizations are also pointing to the continued high civilian cost of the conflict and the difficulties in delivering aid to affected areas.

Analysts warn that even isolated incidents in the Gaza Strip – particularly near key locations such as Rafah – could have far-reaching political consequences in both Israel and the Palestinian territories. In Israel, there is growing pressure from the public and some political factions calling for a tougher response; on the Palestinian side, there is an increased risk of violence spreading to the West Bank and other areas.

The situation continues to evolve rapidly: according to statements, Israeli command is continuing to investigate the circumstances of the incident, and Hamas is maintaining its position regarding the conditions for the transfer of remains. For now, the fragile ceasefire, brokered by foreign actors, is facing a serious test, and the coming days will determine whether there will be an escalation or whether mediators will be able to restore calm.

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