Israel has accused Hamas of launching an attack on its troops in Gaza, despite an ongoing ceasefire, and has vowed to make the group ‘pay a heavy price.’ The incident has further escalated tensions in the region, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordering intense military strikes on the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu accused Hamas of violating a US-brokered ceasefire agreement, which had temporarily halted hostilities. Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, condemned the attack, calling it a ‘crossing of a bright red line’ and promising a forceful response. Katz stated that Hamas would be held accountable not only for the attack on Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers but also for violating the agreement to return the bodies of hostages. The situation has reignited fears of a broader conflict, as both sides appear to be preparing for further confrontations. The ceasefire, which had been brokered to de-escalate the violence, now hangs in the balance as Israel intensifies its military operations in Gaza. The international community is closely monitoring the developments, with concerns over the potential humanitarian impact on civilians in the region.