US Warns of Possible Hamas Violation of Gaza Ceasefire
The US Department of State has issued a warning that Hamas may violate the ceasefire agreement with a potential attack on Palestinian civilians in Gaza, according to credible reports. The move would constitute a direct and grave violation
of the peace agreement inked to end the two-year conflict between Israel and Hamas. The warning comes amid President Donald Trump's insistence that Hamas must disarm or face being disarmed, potentially violently.
Background and Context
The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas came into effect last weekend, following two years of conflict, which began with the attacks in southern Israel on October 7, 2023. The peace deal was brokered by the US in collaboration with Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey. A significant step towards peace was made with a major prisoner exchange under the ceasefire deal where Hamas released the last 20 living Israeli hostages in Gaza, and Israel sent home nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees.
Despite these efforts, Hamas has not publicly committed to laying down its weapons. Senior Hamas official Mohammed Nazzal stated that Hamas intends to maintain control over Gaza's security and cannot commit to disarmament, highlighting the complexities in finding a path to end the war in Gaza.
Imminent Threats and Reactions
While the specifics of the potential attack on Gaza civilians remain undisclosed, the US State Department emphasized that such an action would undermine the substantial progress achieved through mediation efforts and demanded Hamas uphold its obligations under the ceasefire terms.
President Trump echoed the State Department's sentiment in a more forceful manner, stating, If they don’t disarm, we will disarm them. And it will happen quickly and perhaps violently.
He, however, clarified that US troops would not be involved in disarming Hamas or any military activity in Gaza.
Implications
The possible violation of the ceasefire by Hamas has raised tensions and questions about the group's status, especially following the hostage exchange and the signing of the peace deal. The situation is particularly sensitive considering the industrial-scale violence endured by Gaza's civilian population over the past two years.
Despite the potential breach, the US and other guarantor countries remain committed to ensuring the safety of civilians, maintaining calm on the ground, and advancing peace and prosperity for the people of Gaza and the region as a whole.
Current Status
As of now, the ceasefire remains in effect while the guarantor countries, including the US, keep a vigilant eye on the situation. The crossing at Rafah will not reopen before the weekend, and European military is heading there. The US has stated it will send 200 troops to Israel to monitor the ceasefire, but none will be deployed inside Gaza. The international community awaits further developments, hoping for peace to prevail.