Israeli Airstrikes in Gaza After Hamas Rocket Attacks

International Desk

At least 19 Palestinians, including six children, were killed in Israeli airstrikes early Friday, hours after Hamas launched a barrage of rockets into southern Israel.

This marks one of the most intense escalations in months, shattering a fragile ceasefire and raising fears of a larger conflict.

The Israeli military stated that it targeted Hamas command centers and weapons depots in response to over 30 rockets fired by Hamas on Thursday night. One rocket hit a school in Ashkelon, injuring four Israelis.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “Hamas will pay a heavy price for this. We will restore security.”

In Gaza, rescuers searched through rubble for survivors as air raid sirens wailed. Fatima al-Masri, a 29-year-old mother whose home was destroyed, said despairingly, “We thought there would be peace.”

Gaza’s Health Ministry reported at least 47 injuries, with hospitals overwhelmed by casualties.

Hamas claimed its attack was retaliation for Israeli raids in the West Bank, where 12 Palestinians were killed on Wednesday.

The United Nations called for de-escalation. UN Special Envoy Tor Wennesland warned, “This could turn into a humanitarian catastrophe.”

Egypt and Qatar have offered to mediate, but neither side appears willing to back down.

Hamas spokesperson Sami Abu Zuhri said, “Israeli aggression must stop.”

This violence comes as the United States has failed to make progress in Middle East peace talks.

President Trump, who has prioritized stability in the region, posted on social media urging both sides to “stop the madness.”

Analysts fear the conflict could draw in Hamas allies like Hezbollah or Iran. Middle East analyst Aaron David Miller commented, “All the ingredients for a potential conflagration are coming together.”

Now, Gaza’s two million residents are bracing for further bloodshed.