Ahead of the upcoming UN Security Council meeting, Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, has justified the brutal airstrikes on Gaza. He stated that military operations in the besieged Palestinian territory would continue until all Israeli hostages are released.

In a video message on Tuesday, March 18, Danon emphasized Israel’s stance, saying, “The Israeli Air Force has launched a series of strikes targeting Hamas in Gaza. We will show no mercy to our enemies. Let me be clear—Israel will not stop until all our hostages return home.”

He further asserted that Israel would make its position clear to the Security Council: “If they want the war in Gaza to end, they must ensure the hostages return to Israel. We are committed to bringing them back.”

Over 200 Killed in Intense Israeli Airstrikes

Following the collapse of the second round of ceasefire negotiations, Israeli airstrikes on Gaza escalated significantly on Tuesday, with the death toll surpassing 200. Countless Palestinians have been injured in the assault.

According to Al Jazeera, Israeli forces carried out large-scale air raids on several locations, including Deir al-Balah, Gaza City, Khan Younis, and Rafah, on the night of Monday, March 17. The strikes targeted residential areas and key infrastructure, causing severe destruction. The majority of the casualties were women and children, making it the deadliest attack since ceasefire talks began.

White House Confirms Trump Consulted on Gaza Strikes

The renewed military offensive was authorized by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Defense Minister following stalled ceasefire negotiations. The White House confirmed that the attack was launched after consultations between Israeli leaders and former U.S. President Donald Trump.