Israel launched airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, killing at least 235 Palestinians and threatening to reignite the 17-month-old war. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he ordered the strikes due to a lack of progress in talks to extend the ceasefire. The surprise attack shattered a period of relative calm during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and raised questions about the fate of the remaining Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The White House voiced support for Israel's actions and blamed Hamas for the renewed fighting. Talks on a second phase of the ceasefire had stalled, and the sides have not been able to agree on a way forward.