The new rounds of violence were “likely the most serious challenge to the tenuous ceasefire deal in Gaza since it came into force,” The Associated Press said. The Israeli Defense Forces said the ceasefire was back in effect after its heavy airstrikes,

Hamas has said the return of the remaining bodies "may take some time" due to the destruction wrought in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday instructed the country's military to "carry out powerful strikes in Gaza," a statement from his office said, in response to alleged ceasefire violations by Hamas.

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has issued a stark ultimatum to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu — dismantle Hamas or lose his government. Accusing Netanyahu of showing weakness and returning to the ceasefire instead of launching full-scale war,