The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) says it launched air and artillery strikes in southern Gaza Strip, particularly in the Rafah area, after troops came under fire from militants.
Israeli officials said soldiers were hit by an anti-tank missile and gunfire, which they called a “blatant violation” of a ceasefire that began on October 11, 2025.
Palestinian health authorities reported at least nine to eleven people killed in the strikes, including civilians.
Militants linked to Hamas denied being involved in the attack and accused Israel of repeatedly breaching the ceasefire.
The retaliatory strikes mark the first major test of the U.S.-brokered truce and raise doubts about its durability.
Israel warned the border crossing at Rafah with Egypt would remain closed until Hamas met truce terms, including returning the bodies of deceased hostages.
The exchange underscores how volatile the current ceasefire remains and how quickly conflict can reignite.
