Intensified Conflict: Hamas Launches Rockets at Israel Amid Netanyahu's Visit to Trump

In a significant escalation of violence, the Hamas militant group has launched the heaviest barrage of rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel in months. Military sources indicate that approximately ten rockets were fired towards southern Israel, with most intercepted by defense systems. However, one rocket reportedly struck the city of Ashkelon, causing damage and resulting in minor injuries to a civilian.

In response to the attack, the military wing of Hamas claimed responsibility. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) retaliated by targeting the rocket launcher in Deir al-Balah, Gaza, from which the missiles were fired. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, while en route to Washington, ordered a vigorous military response, emphasizing the continuation of intensive operations against Hamas.

Netanyahu's visit to Washington marks his second meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump since Trump took office. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the invitation and plans to discuss various critical issues, including a new U.S. tariff package, efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, and addressing the threats posed by Iran. This visit serves as a reaffirmation of support for Netanyahu amidst growing international criticism of Israel's military actions in Gaza.

The ongoing conflict was reignited following the deadliest attack in Israeli history on October 7, 2023, when Hamas and other extremist groups launched an assault that resulted in over 1,200 Israeli casualties and more than 250 individuals taken hostage into Gaza. Since then, Israel has been engaged in military operations against Hamas in the coastal enclave.

According to health authorities in Gaza, the conflict has led to over 50,100 fatalities, with a significant proportion being children and adolescents. These figures have not been independently verified, though international organizations like the United Nations regard them as credible.

Protests have erupted in Gaza as residents express dissatisfaction with Hamas, particularly in the Dzhabaliya refugee camp, where hundreds demonstrated against the ongoing war with Israel. Many protesters blame Hamas for the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in the area, with signs and chants denouncing the group as terrorists. Conversely, some residents voiced outrage against the Israeli military, accusing it of targeting residential areas and imposing a blockade on humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military has raised concerns regarding the mental health of its soldiers. Since the onset of military operations, around 16,500 injured soldiers have been treated, with over 7,300 suffering from psychological conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety.