Defense Minister Katz: "The gates of hell will open if all hostages are not released." Home Front Command updates guidelines, schools in Gaza envelope canceled.

The ceasefire collapsed last night as the Air Force attacked dozens of terror targets throughout the Gaza Strip. The IDF launched a widespread surprise offensive under political leadership directive, for the first time since the ceasefire deal began.

The Prime Minister's Office stated: "Hamas has repeatedly refused to release hostages. The strikes are intended to achieve the war's objectives. From now on, we will act with increasing military power". It was also noted that the operational plan was presented at the end of last week by the IDF and approved by the political leadership.

Following the deterioration of the security situation, schools in the Gaza envelope have been canceled. Palestinian sources reported approximately 100 casualties and injuries in less than an hour from the start of the attack. Hamas later claimed the number had risen to more than 230 dead.

The IDF and Shin Bet confirmed in a joint statement that they are "extensively attacking Hamas terrorist targets throughout the Gaza Strip" and indicated that additional details would be provided later.

Defense Minister Israel Katz stated: "Tonight we returned to fighting in Gaza against the backdrop of Hamas's refusal to release the hostages, and threats to harm IDF soldiers and Israeli communities. If Hamas does not release all the hostages, the gates of hell will open in Gaza, and Hamas murderers and rapists will meet the IDF with a force they have never known before. We will not stop fighting until all hostages return home and all war objectives are achieved".

The Hostages' Families Headquarters responded sharply to the renewed fighting: "The greatest fear has been realized – the government has chosen to abandon the hostages". This response reflects concerns that renewed military action could endanger the lives of hostages still held by Hamas.

According to the IDF spokesperson's announcement, following a situation assessment, changes were decided in the Home Front Command's defense policy. Starting at 2:00 AM, the Gaza envelope guidance area will transition from full activity level to reduced activity level, which does not allow for educational activities. In contrast, the Western Negev and Western Lachish guidance areas remain unchanged – full activity.

The decision to resume fighting comes after a period of complex negotiations that did not yield the hoped-for results from Israel's perspective. According to the Prime Minister's Office, the strikes are intended "to achieve the war objectives as determined by the political leadership, including the release of all our hostages – both living and deceased".

The renewed offensive marks a significant change in Israeli strategy, following a period of relative ceasefire. The IDF spokesperson emphasized the importance of continuing to follow the guidelines published by the Home Front Command through official distribution channels and noted that complete guidelines are updated on the National Emergency Portal and the Home Front Command app.

Recent events highlight the complexity and dynamic nature of the situation in Gaza, as peace efforts and negotiations for the return of hostages face significant obstacles. Nevertheless, Israeli leadership continues to emphasize its commitment to returning all hostages and achieving the defined war objectives.

These developments raise questions about the near future in the region and about the fate of hostages still in Hamas captivity. The international community is watching the escalation with concern, while residents of the Gaza envelope must once again adapt to a tense security reality.

According to official publications, the Prime Minister's Office emphasized that "from now on, Israel will act against Hamas with increasing military power," suggesting an intention to increase military pressure on Hamas in the coming days. The Defense Minister clarified that fighting will continue until all war objectives are achieved, primarily the return of the hostages.

The dramatic developments in recent hours mark a new chapter in the ongoing conflict, as both sides face difficult decisions regarding continuing the struggle or returning to the negotiating table. Meanwhile, civilians on both sides continue to pay the heavy price of the ongoing conflict.

The IDF calls on residents of the relevant areas to heed Home Front Command instructions and to continue following ongoing updates through official media channels. The situation continues to develop, and additional updates are expected in the coming hours and days.

Photo: Palestinian documentation from Khan Yunis, in accordance with Section 27a