Jerusalem — Violence flared once again in the Israel-Gaza conflict zone late Sunday as the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched multiple rockets at southern Israel, prompting immediate Israeli military retaliation.
At least ten rockets were fired from Gaza, most of which were intercepted by Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system. However, a direct hit was reported in the coastal city of Ashkelon, where at least one person sustained shrapnel injuries, according to emergency services. Israeli media also reported 12 others were lightly wounded, with all receiving treatment at Barzilai Medical Center.
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Videos circulating on social media showed shattered glass, damaged vehicles, and loud sirens echoing through the streets, adding to the already tense atmosphere.
The rocket barrage came in response to Israeli airstrikes across Gaza earlier in the day. According to Gaza’s health authorities, at least 39 Palestinians were killed in the strikes, as fighting intensified despite an earlier ceasefire deal.
In a swift response to the rocket fire, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued an evacuation order for areas in Deir Al-Balah, central Gaza, urging residents to leave immediately. The military later confirmed that it had destroyed the rocket launcher used in the attack.
Ceasefire in Jeopardy as Casualties Mount
Sunday’s escalation is the latest blow to a fragile ceasefire agreement that began on January 19, 2025, aimed at ending 15 months of war. The truce had included the release of Israeli hostages by Hamas and Palestinian prisoners by Israel, but has been unraveling in recent weeks.
Israel resumed ground operations in Gaza on March 19, citing stalled negotiations and accusing Hamas of non-compliance. In turn, Hamas blamed Israel for breaking the terms of the agreement. Tensions have been steadily rising since.
Human Toll Continues to Rise
Since the war began in 2023 following a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel that killed 1,200 people, more than 50,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, according to local health sources. Civilian casualties continue to draw international concern amid ongoing calls for a lasting political solution.
As the region braces for further escalation, analysts warn that the ceasefire is effectively in collapse, and any renewed diplomatic efforts will face a highly volatile environment.
