On April 6, 2025, Hamas launched rockets at southern Israeli cities in response to Israeli airstrikes in Gaza. Around 10 rockets were fired, with most intercepted, though one hit Ashkelon, injuring at least one person. In retaliation, Israeli forces targeted rocket launch sites in Gaza.
The Israeli airstrikes on Gaza killed at least 32 people, including many women and children. Targets included a tent and house in Khan Younis and a bakery in Gaza City. These airstrikes are part of Israel’s ongoing operations to pressure Hamas into a new truce and hostage release agreement, while maintaining a blockade that has cut off essential supplies.
This escalation follows the collapse of a January 2025 ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The conflict has caused over 50,000 Palestinian deaths, with women and children making up more than half of the casualties. The violence has also spread to the West Bank, where tensions continue to rise.
In response to the rocket attacks, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed a “strong response,” insisting that Hamas must “pay a heavy price” for targeting Israeli civilians.
