Tensions soared once again late Sunday as Palestinian group Hamas launched a barrage of rockets toward southern Israel in retaliation for ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza.
At least ten rockets were fired from the enclave, with most intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome defense system. However, a direct hit in Ashkelon injured at least one person due to shrapnel, according to emergency responders. Videos circulating online show damaged cars, broken windows, and sirens wailing through the night.
In response, the Israeli military launched fresh airstrikes, killing at least 39 Palestinians, as confirmed by Gaza’s health ministry. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) also ordered the evacuation of parts of Deir Al-Balah in central Gaza, claiming to have destroyed the rocket launcher used in the attack.
Israeli media reported 12 minor injuries from the rocket fire, with the wounded receiving treatment at Barzilai Medical Center.
This escalation comes amid the collapse of a fragile ceasefire, initially brokered on January 19, which included a temporary halt to fighting, hostage exchanges, and prisoner releases. However, on March 19, Israel resumed ground operations, citing a breakdown in negotiations. Both sides have since traded blame for the renewed violence.
Since the conflict reignited in 2023, over 50,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed, following a Hamas-led attack in which 1,200 Israelis lost their lives.
