India, Oct. 29 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday ordered "forceful strikes" in the Gaza Strip, accusing Hamas of violating the fragile ceasefire that has been in effect since October 10.

The escalation came after Israel claimed Hamas fired on its troops in southern Gaza and returned the remains of a hostage already recovered two years ago, sparking outrage in Jerusalem.

According to the Associated Press, Israeli soldiers came under fire in Rafah on Tuesday, prompting a retaliatory response.

Shortly afterward, Netanyahu instructed the military to launch targeted strikes inside Gaza.

"Hamas has violated the ceasefire agreement -Israel will respond forcefully," a senior Israeli official told the media.

Hamas delays...