Deadly night in Gaza: Israel resumes strikes

Israeli shells rained down on Gaza overnight on March 18, catching the local population off guard after a relatively prolonged ceasefire. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has threatened to continue the offensive until all hostages are returned home and Israel achieves its objectives.

At least 404 people, including children, have been killed in Israeli airstrikes. The Gaza Ministry of Health warns that the death toll may rise as many remain trapped under the rubble.

Hospitals are overwhelmed. The country’s medical facilities are operating in emergency mode, under direct threat of danger. Israeli airstrikes are mainly focused on densely populated areas where people usually take shelter.

Among the casualties are five Hamas leaders and officials, including Gaza’s deputy interior minister and the head of the movement’s Internal Security Service.