What's happened
Israeli forces launched strikes on Gaza, targeting areas near Khan Younis and Gaza City, with no immediate casualties reported. The escalation follows the return of three Israeli captives' remains, amid ongoing exchanges of bodies and hostages. Israeli and Palestinian forces continue to clash, testing the fragile ceasefire brokered by the US.
What's behind the headline?
The current escalation reveals the fragility of the ceasefire, which is being tested by ongoing Israeli strikes and Palestinian resistance activities. Despite the exchange of bodies and hostages, both sides remain suspicious of each other's intentions, risking a renewed outbreak of full-scale conflict. The return of the three Israeli captives' remains underscores the ongoing hostage crisis, while Israeli military actions in Gaza and Lebanon demonstrate a continued focus on military objectives rather than peace. The involvement of regional actors like Turkey and the US indicates a broader geopolitical struggle over influence and stability in the region. The situation suggests that without significant diplomatic breakthroughs, the cycle of violence will persist, further destabilizing Gaza and surrounding areas.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports ongoing Israeli strikes and the response from Gaza's municipal authorities, highlighting the continued violence and humanitarian challenges. Reuters emphasizes the ongoing clashes and the identification of remains of Israeli soldiers killed during Hamas attacks, illustrating the persistent hostilities. The Independent provides details on the recent deaths and the broader context of ceasefire violations, including Israeli claims of cross-border attacks and Palestinian denials. Al Jazeera offers a comprehensive overview of the humanitarian situation, including the dire need for reconstruction and the obstacles posed by unexploded ordnance, as well as regional political dynamics. These sources collectively depict a complex, ongoing conflict where diplomatic efforts are overshadowed by military actions and humanitarian crises.
How we got here
The conflict escalated after Hamas launched a surprise attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, leading to a war that resulted in thousands of deaths and the taking of hostages. A US-brokered ceasefire was established on October 10, 2025, allowing for the exchange of bodies and hostages, but violence persists with Israeli strikes and Palestinian resistance. International efforts focus on stabilizing Gaza and addressing humanitarian needs amid ongoing hostilities.
Go deeper
Common question
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What’s happening in Gaza right now?
Gaza remains a focal point of ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis. Recent Israeli air strikes have caused significant damage, but no injuries have been reported so far. The situation is complex, with efforts to recover bodies, deliver aid, and prevent further escalation. If you're wondering about the current state of Gaza, the latest military actions, and humanitarian efforts, read on for detailed answers to your questions.
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What is the current situation in Gaza?
The Gaza conflict remains a complex and rapidly evolving crisis. Recent Israeli strikes, ongoing clashes, and humanitarian challenges have drawn global attention. People are asking: What exactly is happening in Gaza right now? How are civilians affected? And what are the prospects for peace? Below, we explore the latest updates and answer common questions about this urgent situation.
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How Do International Events Like Gaza Conflicts and Nigeria Tensions Impact Global Security?
Recent conflicts and political unrest around the world raise important questions about their broader impact. From ongoing violence in Gaza to military tensions in Nigeria, these events can influence regional stability and even global security. Below, we explore key questions to understand how these international developments shape our world and what they mean for the future.
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What Are the Economic and Political Impacts of Major News Events?
Major news events often have far-reaching effects beyond the headlines. From economic fallout to political instability, understanding these impacts helps us grasp the bigger picture. Below, we explore key questions about how significant incidents influence markets, governments, and societies worldwide.
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What is the current status of the Gaza ceasefire?
The Gaza conflict remains complex and volatile, even with a fragile ceasefire in place. Despite international efforts to stabilize the region, recent clashes and Israeli strikes continue to threaten peace. Many are wondering: Is the ceasefire holding? Why are tensions still high? Here’s what you need to know about the current situation in Gaza and the ongoing challenges to peace.
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Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
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The Gaza Strip, or simply Gaza, is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, that borders Egypt on the southwest for 11 kilometers and Israel on the east and north along a 51 km border.
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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Gaza City, often simply called Gaza, is a city in the Gaza Strip, Palestine, and the capital of the Gaza Governorate. Located on the Mediterranean coast, 76.6 kilometres (47.6 mi) southwest of Jerusalem, it was home to Palestine's only port. With a popula