During a parliamentary address on Monday, October 20, 2025, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that Israel had unleashed a staggering 153 tonnes (approximately 337,307 pounds) of bombs on various targets within Gaza. These extensive airstrikes were presented as a direct retaliation to an alleged breach of ceasefire by the Palestinian group, Hamas.
Addressing the Knesset, Netanyahu articulated a dual strategy: ‘One of our hands holds a weapon, the other hand is stretched out for peace.’ He further emphasized Israel’s current strength, asserting that ‘You make peace with the strong, not the weak. Today Israel is stronger than ever before,’ signaling a firm stance in the ongoing conflict.
The escalation followed Israel’s announcement on Sunday, October 19, that it had initiated a series of widespread airstrikes against Gaza. This action was prompted by the deaths of two Israeli soldiers in an attack attributed to Hamas, an accusation the Palestinian group has vehemently refuted, denying any involvement.