In a dramatic escalation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reignited military aggression against Gaza, leading to the deaths of over 240 individuals on Monday. This resurgence of violence comes as a surprise, particularly because a ceasefire agreement with Hamas had been holding since January.

However, what’s catching global attention is the potential motivation behind the timing. According to a report by Times of Israel, Netanyahu’s decision to resume the bombardment suspiciously aligns with an upcoming key testimony in a high-profile corruption case against him. Critics suggest the offensive may be a calculated move to shift public focus from his domestic legal troubles to the ongoing war narrative.

Back home, Netanyahu is grappling with increasing backlash. Many Israeli citizens and political analysts have slammed his failure to secure the freedom of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Observers argue that extending the conflict conveniently serves as a smokescreen to deflect public dissatisfaction and delay scrutiny over his governance.

On the military front, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed launching intensive air raids across various parts of the Gaza Strip, including Rafah, Khan Younis, Deir al-Balah, northern Gaza, and Gaza City. The strikes, coordinated with Israel’s internal security agency, resulted in dozens of casualties and hundreds injured, as reported by medical sources within Gaza.

As ceasefire talks crumble, Netanyahu’s tactics are being viewed not just as warfare, but as a political survival strategy.