Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel will respond to what it deems a violation of the October truce with Hamas. This declaration follows an incident where a military officer was lightly injured by an explosive device in the Rafah area of the Gaza Strip. While Hamas denied responsibility for the explosion, it suggested the device was likely a remnant from previous conflicts.
During a speech at a graduation ceremony for Air Force pilots, Netanyahu stated that Hamas has made it clear it has no intention of disarming, despite the terms outlined in the truce agreement. “Israel will respond accordingly,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for accountability. The Israeli military confirmed that the explosive detonated against a military vehicle, resulting in the injury of one officer.
In response, Hamas stated that the incident occurred in a region under Israeli military control and reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire established on October 10. Hamas official Mahmoud Merdawi indicated that mediators had been informed about the situation.
Ongoing Tensions and Mediation Efforts
The ceasefire, part of a broader peace initiative outlined in a 20-point plan by Donald Trump in September, includes provisions for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and an Israeli withdrawal from certain areas. An Israeli delegation recently met with officials from mediating countries in Cairo to discuss the return of the last Israeli hostage, Ran Gvili, a police officer taken during the conflict. This delegation comprised officials from the Israeli military, the Shin Bet domestic intelligence service, and the Mossad intelligence agency.
Despite the ceasefire’s implementation, sporadic violence persists, with both sides accusing each other of violations. The Gazan health ministry reported that over 400 people have been killed in the territory due to Israeli actions, while Israel claims three soldiers have died in attacks from militants. Netanyahu criticized Hamas for declaring its intention not to disarm, stating, “This is in complete contradiction to President Trump’s 20-point plan.”
Netanyahu is scheduled to meet with Trump next week to further discuss the next phase of the Gaza peace plan. Meanwhile, Hamas has also engaged in dialogues, with its chief negotiator Khalil al-Hayya meeting Turkey’s foreign minister in Ankara. Al-Hayya voiced concerns about ongoing Israeli actions that he argues threaten the progress towards the next phase of the ceasefire deal.
The situation remains precarious, with both sides navigating a complex landscape of diplomacy and military readiness. As tensions simmer, the international community continues to monitor the developments closely, seeking a resolution that can lead to lasting peace in the region.
