The United States has warned that Hamas is planning an “imminent” attack on civilians in Gaza, which would constitute a direct violation of the ceasefire agreement. This alert, based on credible reports, threatens to undermine recent mediation efforts and escalate tensions in the region.
The US State Department issued a statement on Saturday, revealing that it has received intelligence indicating Hamas’s intention to launch an assault on Palestinian civilians. Such an action would be a “direct and grave” breach of the ceasefire, potentially derailing the progress made through international diplomacy. The department emphasized that it has informed other guarantor nations, including Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, and demanded that Hamas uphold its obligations under the agreement.
In response, Hamas has strongly denied any plans for an imminent attack, accusing Israel of supporting rival armed groups in Gaza. The militant group claims that its security forces are merely reasserting control in areas vacated by Israeli troops, targeting gangs that have been looting aid convoys and causing instability. This denial highlights the ongoing internal power struggles within Gaza, where Hamas faces challenges from various factions.
The ceasefire, brokered by the United States, was designed to end two years of conflict that began with Hamas’s attack on Israel in October 2023. Key components include the release of hostages, the return of deceased captives’ remains, and the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from parts of Gaza. Recent weeks have seen the handover of several hostage bodies, with Israel confirming the identities of some, while Hamas has slowed the process due to the devastation in Gaza.
Concurrently, Israel announced the closure of the Rafah crossing, linking it to Hamas’s delay in returning more hostage remains. This move has drawn criticism from Hamas, which calls it a violation of the ceasefire terms. The crossing’s closure affects Gazans’ access to medical care and family visits in Egypt, exacerbating the humanitarian situation in the enclave.
The broader conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with over 68,000 Palestinians killed, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, and around 1,200 Israelis dead from the initial attack. The US warning comes as both sides accuse each other of minor breaches, though no major escalation has occurred since the ceasefire took effect. President Donald Trump has previously threatened Hamas, warning that further killings could prompt a US response, though he clarified that no troops would be sent into Gaza.
If Hamas proceeds with the alleged attack, the US has vowed to take measures to protect civilians and preserve the ceasefire. This could involve diplomatic pressure, sanctions, or other actions in coordination with guarantor nations. The situation remains volatile, with the potential for renewed violence threatening the fragile peace.
The international community is closely monitoring developments, as any breach could unravel the ceasefire and lead to a resumption of full-scale conflict. Efforts are ongoing to ensure compliance from all parties, with a focus on stabilizing Gaza and advancing long-term peace prospects for the region.