At least 11 Palestinians were killed in Israeli airstrikes across Gaza on Sunday, as tensions rose and the fragile U.S.-brokered ceasefire appeared close to collapse.
Gaza’s civil defence agency said the strikes hit multiple areas including Rafah and Beit Lahia, killing six people in the north. Israel said the attacks were in response to Hamas gunfire and rocket-propelled grenade fire targeting its troops.
Gaza ceasefire under strain after exchange of fire between Israel and Hamas https://t.co/mZFUhk7NHy
— Financial Times (@FT) October 19, 2025
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered “firm action” against “terror targets,” while Defence Minister Israel Katz warned Hamas would “pay a heavy price” for any truce violations.
Hamas denied any ceasefire breach, saying its armed wing was unaware of clashes in Rafah and accusing Israel of deliberate escalation. The group also claimed it had located the body of another Israeli hostage and planned to hand it over “if conditions allow,” warning renewed airstrikes could hinder the transfer.
The Gaza health ministry meanwhile released images showing what it said were “signs of torture” on bodies returned by Israel.
Hardline Israeli politicians questioned the government’s commitment to the ceasefire, with ministers Amichai Chikli and Avi Dichter insisting Israel cannot coexist with Hamas. Opposition leader Yair Golan urged a “decisive response,” saying the truce had failed to bring security.
The Rafah border crossing with Egypt remains closed “until further notice,” blocking vital aid shipments. UN relief chief Tom Fletcher, visiting Gaza, described the territory as a “wasteland” and urged world leaders to prevent a return to “the cycle of cruelty and revenge.”
The renewed violence marks the most serious challenge yet to the ceasefire, agreed earlier this month after months of war that left much of Gaza in ruins.
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