The Israeli Air Force conducted airstrikes in Rafah, southern Gaza, this morning, October 19th, 2025, following multiple ceasefire violations by Hamas, including an explosion targeting an IDF engineering vehicle and sniper fire, which resulted in four Israeli soldiers being injured and two killed. The attacks occurred between 9:05 AM and 10:05 AM UTC. The IDF also reported eliminating two terrorists who crossed the "Yellow Line" border near Jabalia. According to Israeli military reports, the initial incident in Rafah involved an explosion on an IDF engineering vehicle, with subsequent sniper fire reported. In response, Israeli airstrikes targeted terror sites in Rafah. The Israeli military stated that Hamas terrorists carried out multiple attacks beyond the "Yellow Line" buffer zone, including a rocket-propelled grenade and sniper fire, which it deemed a "blatant violation of the ceasefire." The IDF also confirmed that forces encountered an ambush while attempting to engage Hamas terrorists. Cabinet member Avi Dichter stated this morning that Israel will "resume fighting" due to these violations, indicating a shift in conditions. Meanwhile, heavy gunfire from Israeli tanks was reported in Abasan Al Kabira, east of Khan Yunis. Separately, the IDF confirmed the identification of Suntaia Okarsari, a Thai citizen murdered by Hamas on October 7, 2023, and whose body was abducted to Gaza. The IDF emphasized Hamas's obligation to return abducted individuals. Reports from Israeli media indicate that these are the first airstrikes in the Gaza Strip since the agreement went into effect. Israeli national security minister called for a resumption of fighting immediately after the ceasefire violations. Discussions are ongoing regarding the intensity of Israel's response, with a decision expected after a situation assessment by the political echelon. Trucks have returned to entry through the Rafah crossing, according to Al-Arabiya correspondent. In parallel, reports from Palestinian sources mention a Palestinian man killed by Israeli forces near Nablus and incidents of Israelis attacking Palestinians in Turmusayya, Ramallah, injuring a woman and an international activist and setting cars alight.
