GAZA/TEL AVIV - Heavy fighting erupted in Gaza on Friday as Israel's military resumed combat operations against Hamas, accusing the Palestinian group of violating a temporary truce.

The seven-day pause, which began on Nov. 24 and was extended twice, allowed for hostage exchanges and humanitarian aid. Israel intercepted a rocket from Gaza just before the truce ended, leading to renewed hostilities.

Israeli airstrikes and artillery strikes targeted Hamas in Gaza after the truce expired. Images on social media captured plumes of smoke over Jabalia camp. Israel's vow to annihilate Hamas stems from the Oct. 7 rampage, with Israel claiming gunmen killed 1,200 people. In response, Israel launched intense bombardment and a ground invasion.

Efforts by Qatar and Egypt to extend the truce followed the exchange of hostages and prisoners. Israel, demanding the release of hostages, had previously set conditions for a pause in its assault. The truce saw the release of 105 hostages and 240 Palestinian prisoners.

Among the freed hostages were six women, including Mia Schem, a 21-year-old with French and Israeli citizenship. Photos released showed emotional reunions, highlighting the human impact of the conflict. Despite diplomatic efforts, uncertainties persist about sustaining the agreement, as noted by lead negotiator Abdullah Al Sulaiti.

While the truce allowed some humanitarian aid into Gaza, deliveries remained insufficient. King Abdullah of Jordan urged international pressure on Israel to increase aid during an emergency meeting in Amman. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in Israel, emphasized the need to avoid civilian casualties in the planned focus on southern Gaza. Israel agreed to measures, including protecting critical infrastructure and designating safe zones.