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IDF Strikes Gaza: 60-Day Ultimatum for Hamas Disarmament

2/18/2026

45 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Israel Defense Forces conducted airstrikes in Gaza in response to ceasefire violations.
The IDF targeted Hamas operatives during the strikes.
The strikes resulted in casualties, including Ahmad Bayouk, involved in the October 7 attacks.
The IDF stated that armed individuals emerged from tunnels and threatened Israeli troops.
A senior Israeli official said Hamas would have a 60-day window to disarm, or military action would resume.

History

Historical Context

The Six-Day War from June 5-10, 1967, escalated Israeli-Arab tensions, resulting in Israel's control over Gaza and the West Bank. The conflict arose from preemptive Israeli strikes against Egypt amid rising hostilities. Following the war, groups like Hamas emerged in the late 1980s, advocating for Palestinian rights, perpetuating a cycle of violence that continues today, especially after the October 7 attacks.

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Story summary

The Israel Defense Forces conducted airstrikes in Gaza in response to ceasefire violations.
The IDF targeted Hamas operatives during the strikes.
The strikes resulted in casualties, including Ahmad Bayouk, involved in the October 7 attacks.
The IDF stated that armed individuals emerged from tunnels and threatened Israeli troops.
A senior Israeli official said Hamas would have a 60-day window to disarm, or military action would resume.

1 / 2