ACLEDOn 18 March, Israel resumed widespread airstrikes across Gaza after nearly two months of ceasefire, with ACLED recording over 300 airstrike events in March nearly 10 times the airstrikes in February. The ceasefire collapsed after Hamas rejected a US proposal to extend the truce in exchange for 15 Israeli hostages, arguing it undermined the second phase of the agreement aimed at a permanent ceasefire.1
As part of the renewed offensive, Israeli troops expanded the buffer zone, retaking the eastern section of the Netzarim corridor and partially disconnecting northern and southern Gaza. Troops advanced into Bait Lahiya and moved from the Philadelphi corridor toward Rafah camp and al-Mawasi, encircling the Tal al-Sultan area west of Rafah. Hamas and other armed groups avoided direct clashes but fired several rockets toward Israel, causing no casualties or property damage. Overall, Israeli operations resulted in around 950 deaths among Palestinians in March, including civilians, militants, and top officials and commanders more than six times the fatalities recorded in February. Notably, among those killed we're four members of Hamas political bureau, including Ismail Barhoum, the head of Hamas civil and financial administration in Gaza.2
The Israeli government has asserted that negotiations will proceed under fire until Hamas is disarmed and its leaders depart Gaza.3While Hamas continues to view disarmament as a red line, it has shown flexibility in releasing five living hostages in exchange for an extended ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid into Gaza.4Limited anti-Hamas protests surfaced during March in Gaza, the first since February 2024, intensifying pressure on the group amid rising public discontent. The launch of a new Israeli ground operation on 2 April will likely increase pressure on Hamas by further preventing humanitarian aid and targeting new areas.5
For more information, seeACLEDs Gaza Monitor.
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