US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz backs Israeli strikes on Gaza that broke 2-month ceasefire

US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz has voiced support for Israel’s renewed military action against Hamas, despite mounting international criticism. The reaction came after Israel launched airstrikes across the Gaza Strip early Tuesday, killing over 400 Palestinians, including women and children.

“Israel has every right to protect its people from Hamas terrorists. The ceasefire would have been extended if Hamas released all remaining hostages. Instead, they chose war,” Waltz posted on X.

The Donald Trump administration has firmly backed Israel’s decision to resume fighting on Monday night after Hamas rejected a US offer to extend the first phase of the hostage deal.

Israel launched airstrikes across the Gaza Strip early Tuesday, killing hundreds of Palestinians, according to the territory’s Health Ministry. The surprise bombardment shattered a ceasefire in place since January and threatened to fully reignite the 17-month-old war.

The White House said it had been consulted and voiced support for Israel’s actions, according to news agency AP.