U.S. Warns of Imminent Hamas Attack on Civilians in Gaza, Threatening Ceasefire
Washington, D.C. – The United States has alerted mediators that Hamas is poised to violate the current ceasefire agreement with Israel by launching attacks against civilians within the Gaza Strip, according to a statement released today.The warning comes amid reports of summary executions carried out by Hamas targeting Palestinians suspected of collaborating with Israel.
The escalating tensions threaten to unravel the fragile peace deal brokered last week, which saw Israel halt its military offensive in exchange for the release of hostages held by Hamas since the October 7, 2023, attacks. The initial phase of the agreement, involving the release of both living and deceased hostages, is currently underway. This development raises serious concerns about the safety of Gazan civilians and the long-term viability of the truce, perhaps jeopardizing further hostage releases and humanitarian aid efforts.
The U.S. has communicated its concerns to the guarantors of the peace agreement – including Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey – regarding what it describes as an “imminent ceasefire violation.” Hamas has reportedly begun a campaign to consolidate control over Gaza thru a series of reprisals and executions. On Tuesday, Hamas released a video depicting the summary execution of individuals accused of being “collaborators” in Gaza city.
President Trump has already issued a stark warning to hamas, stating on his Truth Social network, “If Hamas continues to kill people in Gaza, which was not foreseen in the agreement, we will have no choice but to go and kill them.” The president did not specify which entity would carry out any potential retaliatory action.
The current ceasefire agreement was designed to allow for a phased release of hostages and a reduction in violence.The U.S. statement underscores the urgency of preventing further bloodshed and preserving the integrity of the truce to protect the people of Gaza. Details of specific measures being considered to address the situation were not included in the press release.
