Israel launches air strikes in Rafah despite ceasefire with Hamas: report

The Israeli army launched air strikes in Rafah in southern Gaza on Sunday despite a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, local media said.

Israel’s public broadcaster KAN said that the strikes were staged following an exchange of fire with Hamas.

Channel 12 claimed that the attack came after a military vehicle was targeted by Hamas.

There was no immediate comment from Hamas on the Israeli claim.

A ceasefire and hostage swap agreement was reached between Israel and Hamas last week, based on a phased plan presented by US President Donald Trump.

Phase one included the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

The plan also envisages the rebuilding of Gaza and the establishment of a new governing mechanism without Hamas.

Since October 2023, the Israeli genocidal war has killed more than 68,100 people and injured 170,200, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

Israel confirms air strikes

The Israeli military said on Sunday that air force fighter jets carried out air strikes in Gaza's Rafah area to remove a threat after its troops came under fire.

The military further alleges the fighters’ actions "violated" the ceasefire agreement, adding that it will respond firmly.