An escalating situation in the Gaza Strip has resulted in a new wave of extensive airstrikes by the Israeli military, reportedly killing at least 66 Palestinians and casting doubt on the fragile ceasefire that had been in place for nearly two months.

The strikes, described as the largest since the ceasefire began in January, were confirmed by Israel's military, which stated they were targeting “terror targets belonging to Hamas.” According to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the decision for the military action stemmed from consistent refusals by Hamas to release hostages and a breakdown in discussions facilitated by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and other mediators aimed at extending the truce.

Netanyahu's office declared that Israel would act with “increasing military strength” in the face of Hamas’ rejection of proposals aimed at resolving the hostage situation, which remains contentious. “This comes after Hamas repeatedly refused to release our hostages,” the statement added, stressing that the military operations would not cease until all hostages are recovered.

Reports from Gaza indicate widespread destruction, with airstrikes hitting key areas such as Deir Al-Balah and Khan Younis. Eyewitness accounts noted that ambulances were racing to hospitals as explosions rang out across various locations, underscoring the grave humanitarian situation. CBS News reported that the airstrikes marked the most significant escalation in military action since the ceasefire.

Health officials in Gaza have cited the strikes as tragic and devastating, emphasizing that many of the victims are civilians, including women and children. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by ongoing military operations and loss of life, faces obstacles as the territory deals with vast destruction and needs for rebuilding, with supplies running critically low.

The ceasefire had previously provided a brief period of respite, allowing for some hostage exchanges and the promise of negotiations for a more lasting peace. However, this recent escalation indicates a severe regression in prospects for peace as both sides grapple with terms for further negotiations.

The ongoing conflict, ignited by a Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, has seen over 48,000 Palestinians killed in the subsequent military response by Israel, creating an enormous humanitarian crisis.

For continuous updates on this developing story, stay tuned to news sources including South China Morning Post and The New York Times.