The Israeli military launched a large-scale offensive against Hamas in Gaza on Tuesday, conducting "extensive strikes" as ceasefire negotiations stalled. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that the airstrikes targeted Hamas strongholds across the region, resulting in the deaths of at least 100 people.

"In accordance with the political echelon, the IDF and ISA are currently conducting extensive strikes on terror targets belonging to the Hamas terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip," the IDF announced on X.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the strikes after ceasefire talks failed to progress. Officials stated that the military operation was open-ended and could expand further. "Israel will, from now on, act against Hamas with increasing military strength," Netanyahu’s office declared, according to The Associated Press.

The airstrikes come amid the holy month of Ramadan, further escalating tensions in the region. The IDF emphasized that the operation aimed to achieve key war objectives, including the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

The breakdown in ceasefire negotiations stemmed from disagreements over the three-stage truce agreement. While Israel pushed to extend the first phase, Hamas insisted on releasing the remaining hostages in the second phase, originally scheduled to begin on March 2. Under the initial ceasefire, Hamas had freed 33 Israeli hostages, while Israel reportedly released around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.

Since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, following Hamas’ attack on Israel, over 48,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli military operations, according to reports. With diplomatic efforts at an impasse, the region faces an uncertain and escalating crisis.