Israel Prime Minister Says Large Fatal Strikes Are “Only The Beginning”

Hamas said at least six senior officials were killed in the strikes including the head of Hamas' civilian government.

Israel’s airstrikes across the Gaza Strip Tuesday resulted in the death of more than 400 Palestinians.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the strikes after Hamas refused israeli demands to free half of the remaining hostages as a precondition for extending the ceasefire that’s been in place since January.

Hamas said at least six senior officials were killed in the strikes including the head of Hamas’ civilian government.

The strikes marked the deadliest bombardment of the territory in the 17-month war killing mostly women and children.

Netanyahu said that the attack is “only the beginning” and that Israel would press ahead until it achieves all of its war aims. That includes destroying Hamas and freeing all hostages held by the militant group.

Netanyahu said all further ceasefire negotiations will take place “under fire.” The White House said it had been consulted and voiced support for Israel’s actions.