Israel launches major new offensive in Gaza after a wave of airstrikes kills hundreds

Israel has launched a major new offensive in Gaza following a wave of airstrikes that have killed more than 300 people in 72 hours, according to local authorities, in one of the deadliest weeks of the conflict since the ceasefire collapsed in March, and recalling the intensity of the early months of the war.

Israel has launched a major new offensive in Gaza following a wave of airstrikes that have killed more than 300 people in 72 hours, according to local authorities, in one of the deadliest weeks of the conflict since the ceasefire collapsed in March, and recalling the intensity of the early months of the war.

The Israel Defense Forces on Saturday appeared to be moving ahead with plans of a new ground offensive, including the buildup of armored forces along the border.

In a statement late Friday, the IDF said it had “launched extensive attacks and mobilized forces to seize strategic areas in the Gaza Strip, as part of the opening moves of Operation Gideon’s Chariots and the expansion of the campaign in Gaza.”

The statement described the latest offensive as a renewed effort to release hostages and defeat Hamas. It comes after Israel’s security Cabinet unanimously approved plans earlier in May to seize all of the Gaza Strip.