Israeli military forces have carried out strikes against Hamas positions in Gaza following accusations that the group violated the terms of the ceasefire agreement with multiple attacks on IDF troops. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the strikes to Fox News, citing numerous attacks conducted by Hamas on Israeli forces since Friday that transpired beyond the demarcation line that Israel had previously withdrawn behind under the terms of the ceasefire agreement. According to Israeli military officials, the attacks on IDF forces consisted of an RPG shot at a military force and a sniper fire against a military force. The incidents occurred within an Israeli-controlled area east of the yellow line, which separates Israeli territories under the ceasefire arrangement from the Gaza Strip. The strikes were initiated as a response to these violations, according to the IDF.
These attacks are being viewed as a significant violation of the ceasefire, prompting the IDF to take decisive action. The situation has further escalated following reports that Hamas executed at least 33 individuals in recent days. Authorities in the Gaza Strip have described these executions as part of an intentional campaign to ‘show strength’ after the establishment of the ceasefire. The actions by Hamas have also coincided with reports of confrontations with Palestinian rival groups, which were reportedly ongoing in the days following the ceasefire’s implementation. According to U.S. sources, these executions were directed at families accused of collaborating with Israel or displaying support for rival militias.
The U.S. Department of State has expressed concerns that Hamas may break the ceasefire through a planned attack on Palestinian civilians. The department issued a warning on social media, stating that such an attack would constitute a direct and grave violation of the ceasefire agreement, thereby undermining the progress made through mediation efforts. The statement emphasized the commitment of the U.S. and other guarantors to ensuring the safety of civilians, maintaining calm, and advancing peace and prosperity for the people of Gaza and the region as a whole.
President Donald Trump has also intervened, warning Hamas that continued attacks on Palestinians would force the U.S. and Israel to take further action. He made this statement on X, where he wrote, “If Hamas continues to kill people in Gaza, which was not the deal, we will have no choice but to go in and kill them.” The U.S. and Israel have been under pressure to ensure the ceasefire’s stability, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions and the potential for further violence in the region.
Given the severity of the situation, international and regional actors continue to monitor developments closely, with calls for the peaceful resolution of hostilities and adherence to the ceasefire terms. The humanitarian situation remains critical in Gaza, as the ongoing conflict poses significant challenges to the local population, with concerns over civilian safety, access to essential supplies, and the overall stability of the region.