The Israeli army stated that the attacks occurred "in response to violations of the ceasefire conditions" and were aimed at commanders and infrastructure of Hamas and "Islamic Jihad." A joint statement from the IDF and the Shin Bet security service emphasized that any violations of the ceasefire would be taken with the utmost seriousness.
These airstrikes occurred against the backdrop of preparations for the opening of the Rafah border crossing, located in the southern part of the sector. Since the conflict began in October 2023, all crossings into Gaza have been closed, and Palestinians view the Rafah checkpoint as a crucial route for evacuating those in need of medical assistance outside the enclave.
According to the Gaza Ministry of Health, since the ceasefire began on October 10 of last year, more than 500 Palestinians have died as a result of actions by the Israeli military.
