Media: Israel's strikes on Gaza kill captive

A series of intense Israeli airstrikes on Gaza overnight has resulted in the death of an Israeli captive and at least 404 Palestinian casualties, with more than 500 others wounded.

The strikes, which began around 2 a.m. local time just before the pre-dawn Ramadan meal (suhoor), have drawn widespread condemnation from Hamas, which accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of sabotaging a ceasefire agreement, Caliber.Az reports, citing The New Arab.

The captive, whose identity remains undisclosed, was killed when an Israeli jet targeted the location in Gaza where they were being held. A senior Hamas leader confirmed the death and reiterated the group's warning that Israeli bombings were putting captives' lives at risk. The official also emphasized that any potential hostage release would require a negotiation process.

Palestinian health officials fear the death toll will rise as rescue efforts continue, with many still trapped under rubble. Gaza’s government media office reported that entire families, including women, children, and the elderly, were wiped out in the attacks. Among the casualties is a pregnant woman and her baby, both killed in central Gaza’s Nuseirat area.

The Israeli government has defended the strikes, claiming they were a response to Hamas's refusal to extend the first phase of a ceasefire agreement. However, the lack of prior warning for the strikes, which targeted residential areas and makeshift shelters for displaced persons, has led to widespread outcry.

By Khagan Isayev