Israel has launched a wave of airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, saying it is hitting Hamas targets in its heaviest assault in the territory since a ceasefire took effect in January. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had ordered the strikes because of a lack of progress in ongoing talks to extend the ceasefire. It was not immediately clear if the operation was a one-time pressure tactic or if the 17-month-old war was being resumed altogether. Palestinian officials said at least 69 people were killed in the airstrikes, which started early Tuesday. Hamas warned that Israel’s new airstrikes breached their ceasefire and put the fate of hostages in jeopardy.
