Russia condemns Israel's resumption of military operation in Gaza

Russia has condemned the resumption of Israel's military operation in the Gaza Strip, expressing regret over the situation.

“Moscow perceived with deep regret Israel's resumption of the military operation in the Gaza Strip. As experience shows, it is impossible to settle the issue of hostages' release by force. Russia strongly condemns any actions that lead to the death of civilians and destruction of social infrastructure,” the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

The ministry also called for both Israel and Palestine to return to the negotiation table. “Moscow calls on the Israeli and Palestinian sides to return to the negotiation process aimed at working out a mutually acceptable compromise solution to the problem of the detainees, which would make it possible to ensure sustainable normalization of the situation in the Gaza Strip and launch full-scale reconstruction of the Palestinian enclave,” the statement emphasized.

The new military operation, dubbed "Strength and Sword," was launched by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) on March 18. It targeted Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip and began with an airstrike aimed at delivering a significant blow to Hamas leadership and infrastructure.

The operation, which had been in preparation for months, involved coordinated efforts between the IDF and Israel's domestic security service, Shin Bet. The primary goal was to maximize damage to Hamas by striking as many members as possible in the first wave of attacks.

A key factor in the operation's timing was the disruption of daily life in Gaza during the ongoing observance of Ramadan, which affected both civilians and militants. The Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet) and the Military Intelligence Directorate had compiled a list of addresses where Hamas members were expected to gather for their nightly meals. During the first wave of attacks, dozens of planes and drones simultaneously dropped hundreds of bombs on these locations, where Hamas members were believed to be gathered.

The operation was led by IDF Chief of Staff Major General Eyal Zamir, IAF Commander Major General Tomer Bar, and Israeli intelligence officer Ronen Bar. The airstrike took place at precisely 2:20 a.m. (GMT+2) on March 18.

By Tamilla Hasanova