Israel dropped 153 tons of bombs on Gaza: Netanyahu
What's the story
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has revealed to the country's parliament that its forces dropped 153 tons of bombs on targets in Gaza on October 19. The airstrikes were launched after Israel claimed Hamas breached a ceasefire, and two Israeli soldiers were killed in an attack that Israel attributed to Hamas. However, Hamas has denied any involvement in the attack.
Parliamentary statement
Israel is stronger than ever before, says Netanyahu
In a speech to the Knesset, Netanyahu said, "One of our hands holds a weapon, the other hand is stretched out for peace." He emphasized Israel's strength, saying that "today Israel is stronger than ever before." The prime minister also reiterated his belief that peace can only be achieved with strength.
Diplomatic remarks
US envoy calls for help for Palestinians after war
Meanwhile, a United States envoy has said that after the war, Israel must "find a way to help" Palestinians. On the other hand, the Gaza government media office has documented 80 Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement, resulting in 97 Palestinian fatalities and 230 injuries since the truce theoretically began.
Ceasefire context
Framework of Israel-Hamas ceasefire
With hostage-prisoner exchanges planned in the initial phase, the ceasefire agreement was based on a phased approach presented by US President Donald Trump on October 10. It also laid out a framework for Gaza's reconstruction under new governance structures that excluded Hamas. As of now, the conflict has resulted in over 68,200 fatalities and 170,200 injuries, according to Gaza health officials, since hostilities escalated in October 2023.