A targeted assassination of a senior Hamas commander has raised serious concerns regarding the stability of the ongoing ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Khalil al-Hayya, Hamas’ chief negotiator and exiled leader, announced the death of Raed Saed during a televised address. Saed was killed in an Israeli airstrike on October 10, 2023, marking a significant escalation in tensions since the truce was established following a US-backed ceasefire agreement.
In his address, Hayya characterized the Israeli strike as a “continued violation” of the ceasefire, stating, “The latest assassinations that targeted Saed and others threaten the viability of the agreement.” This incident represents the most high-profile assassination of a Hamas figure since the ceasefire began. Hamas officials describe Saed as the second-in-command of the group’s armed wing, positioned just below Izz eldeen Al-Hadad.
Hayya urged international mediators, particularly the United States and President Donald Trump, to ensure that Israel adheres to the terms of the ceasefire. “We call on mediators to work on obliging Israel to respect the ceasefire and commit to it,” he said. This plea highlights the ongoing fragility of the agreement, which was designed to de-escalate two years of conflict.
The assassination has also prompted discussions about the proposed International Stabilisation Force (ISF), which is intended to maintain peace along the Gaza borders. Hayya emphasized that the role of international forces should focus solely on upholding the ceasefire and should not interfere in Gaza’s internal affairs. The deployment of this force is a vital element of the next phase of Trump’s peace plan.
According to US officials, the US Central Command is organizing a conference in Doha on December 16, 2023, to discuss the formation of the ISF with partner countries. This meeting is expected to play a crucial role in solidifying international efforts to stabilize the region.
As the situation continues to evolve, the impact of recent developments remains uncertain. The potential for renewed violence looms, and the international community’s response will be pivotal in shaping the future of peace in the Gaza Strip.
