At least nine Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes in Gaza on Sunday, according to Palestinian health and civil defence officials. The strikes have raised fresh concerns about the stability of the fragile ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Officials in Gaza said the casualties included civilians, and several others were injured in the attacks. Emergency teams were seen clearing debris and transporting the wounded to nearby hospitals. Local authorities described the situation as tense, with fears of further escalation.
The Israel military said the strikes were a “precise” response to what it described as violations of the ceasefire agreement by Hamas. According to Israeli officials, armed individuals were spotted moving east of an agreed demarcation line, which they claim breached the terms of the truce.
Hamas has denied intentional violations and accused Israel of using excessive force. The group said the airstrikes undermine efforts to maintain calm in the region. The ceasefire, brokered through international mediation, was meant to reduce hostilities after weeks of intense fighting.
The Gaza Strip has witnessed repeated cycles of violence in recent years, with civilian populations often bearing the brunt of military exchanges. International observers have called on both sides to exercise restraint and adhere strictly to ceasefire terms.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the latest violence highlights how fragile the situation remains and how quickly tensions can escalate despite agreements aimed at restoring calm.
