Israel carried out airstrikes in Rafah after Hamas opened fire on its soldiers, with Netanyahu ordering a “forceful response” against Gaza targets.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Sunday that it struck Hamas targets in Rafah after militants fired an anti-tank missile and gunfire toward Israeli troops.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directed the military to “respond with force” following consultations with Defense Minister Israel Katz and top security officials, according to his office.
A Hamas official accused Netanyahu of “undermining the ceasefire” to appease right-wing allies, while the group’s military wing, the Izzadin al-Qassam Brigades, claimed it was unaware of any clashes in Rafah.
“Hamas remains committed to the agreement,” said senior leader Izzat al-Rishq, accusing Israel of “fabricating flimsy pretexts to justify its crimes.”
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir urged a full-scale offensive, while Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich posted “War!” on X.
The strikes came after the US warned of “credible reports” of an imminent Hamas ceasefire violation, calling it a “grave breach” of the truce.