Israel said Wednesday its troops retook part of a corridor that bisects Gaza, and its defense minister warned that attacks would increase ''with an intensity that you have not known'' until Hamas frees dozens of hostages and gives up control of the territory.

Israel said Wednesday it launched a “limited ground operation” in northern Gaza to retake part of a corridor that bisects the territory, and the country’s defense minister warned that the army plans to step up the attacks that shattered a two-month cease-fire “with an intensity that you have not seen.

The resumption of airstrikes has raised concerns about the fate of roughly two dozen hostages held by Hamas who are believed to still be alive.