Israel launches strikes on Gaza, after PM Netanyahu orders 'powerful' attacks | BBC News

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Hamas’s Civil Defence told the BBC that a series of Israeli air strikes have hit homes, the courtyard of al-Shifa Hospital, and several other areas in Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis. Witnesses and local residents reported hearing powerful explosions that shook several parts of the enclave, with the heaviest strikes concentrated in Gaza City. The new wave of attacks came hours after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the military to resume strikes on Gaza, following days of rising tension and accusations that Hamas was stalling over the recovery of Israeli captives’ remains. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has said Hamas "will pay a heavy price", alleging the group has attacked IDF soldiers in Gaza and has violated the ceasefire agreement. In a statement, Hamas denied any connection to a shooting incident that targeted an Israeli army unit in the southern city of Rafah. Subscribe here: http://bit.ly/1rbfUog For more news, analysis and features visit: www.bbc.com/news #Gaza #BBCNews