An official of the Israel Defense Forces told NBC News that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for strikes in retaliation for a Hamas attack in Rafah.

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that a U.S.-backed ceasefire in Gaza was not at risk after local authorities reported that 26 people had been killed in Israeli strikes, as Israel and Hamas traded accusations of blame for the violence.

Hamas is in “clear violation” of the Gaza ceasefire agreement after returning remains to Israel that did not belong to any of the 13 hostages still unaccounted for in the enclave, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said Tuesday.

Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered his military to immediately carry out strikes in Gaza on Tuesday - reports suggest at least nine people were killed in the bombing

Thirteen families whose loved ones were taken hostage during the Oct. 7, 2023, attack are still waiting for Hamas to return their remains from Gaza.

The temporary dividing line between two foes is becoming more permanent, with earthworks and plans for civilian infrastructure.