Key Highlights
- Israel announced the restart of a ceasefire in Gaza after carrying out intense strikes that killed over 100 people.
- The Israeli military claimed to have targeted homes and gatherings across the Palestinian enclave.
- Hamas denied involvement in an alleged attack on an Israeli soldier in Rafah, blaming Israel for the ceasefire violations.
- President Donald Trump supported Israel’s actions, stating that the truce was not at risk despite the recent strikes.
Israel’s Ceasefire Restarted Amid Intense Strikes
On October 28, 2025, Israel declared the restoration of a ceasefire in Gaza after conducting airstrikes that killed over 100 people. The Israeli military stated that it had begun enforcing the fragile truce following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s order for “powerful” strikes on Gaza. This move came as both sides accused each other of violating the ceasefire agreement.
Israeli Strikes and Casualties
The attacks targeted multiple locations in Gaza, including homes, tents, and gatherings across various cities. According to Dr. Khalil Al-Daqran, a spokesperson for the Palestinian health ministry, more than 104 individuals lost their lives, with over 40 children and 20 women among the victims.
Additionally, more than 250 people were injured in the strikes.
Dr. Muhammad Abu Salmiya, director of Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, reported similar figures. Mahmoud Basal, a spokesperson for Gaza’s Civil Defense agency, stated that the assault had continued into the morning and warned that the death toll could increase.
Hamas’ Response and Political Backing
In response to Israel’s actions, Hamas accused the Israeli military of staging a “flagrant violation” of the ceasefire. The militant group urged mediators to intervene and pressure Israel to halt its attacks. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump voiced support for Israel’s actions, maintaining that the truce was not at risk.
Trump stated, “the Israelis hit back, and they should hit back when that happens.” He added, “They said they would be good, and if they’re good they’re going to be happy. And if they’re not good, they’re going to be terminated.”
Tensions Over Hostage Remains and Continued Violence
The conflict has also been fueled by ongoing disputes over the return of hostage remains. While Hamas returned living hostages from Gaza, it failed to return all deceased hostagess’ remains. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) was involved in facilitating exchanges for Palestinian prisoners and detainees held by Israel.
On Tuesday, Israel accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire agreement after returning body parts identified as those of Ofir Tzarfati, whose remains were already returned to Israel about two years ago.
The Israeli military released footage suggesting that Hamas had staged the recovery process, showing people carrying a white shroud from a building and covering it with dirt before revealing it in front of a recovery team.
The ICRC addressed the incident, stating, “Our teams were not aware that a deceased person had been placed there prior to their arrival, as seen in the footage. This is unacceptable for a fake recovery.”
