Post by : Meena Ariff

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly accused Hamas of violating the fragile Gaza ceasefire agreement following a recent attack that injured an Israeli military officer in the southern Gaza border town of Rafah. The incident involved an explosive device detonating near an Israeli military vehicle, causing light injuries to an officer and prompting Israel to vow a firm and decisive response.

Netanyahu’s office released a statement emphasizing that Hamas must adhere strictly to the terms of the ceasefire agreement reached in October. The statement highlighted that the agreement not only aims to halt hostilities but also envisions the removal of Hamas from power in Gaza, along with comprehensive steps toward demilitarization and deradicalization of the territory. The Prime Minister’s statement made clear that any violation would be met with an appropriate Israeli reaction to maintain security and deter further provocations.

The Israeli military confirmed the attack, noting that the explosive device targeted a military vehicle in the southern part of Rafah, near the Egypt-Gaza border. Though the officer injured sustained only light wounds, the attack underscores the fragile nature of the ceasefire, which has seen a significant reduction in violence but not a complete end to hostilities since it took effect on October 10.

Since the ceasefire began, both Israel and Hamas have repeatedly accused each other of violations, with occasional flare-ups of violence reminding observers of the deep-rooted tensions that remain unresolved. According to Gaza’s health ministry, Israeli military actions have resulted in the deaths of more than 400 Palestinians in the territory since the truce was implemented, further fueling tensions and mistrust on the ground.

The current ceasefire arrangement is linked to a broader 20-point peace plan proposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump in September. This plan called for an initial truce followed by progressive steps toward a comprehensive peace agreement. Key elements of the proposal include Hamas’s complete disarmament and relinquishing of its governing authority in Gaza, as well as Israel’s phased withdrawal from the territory, which remains heavily damaged after years of conflict.

However, Hamas has publicly resisted disarmament, insisting that it will only consider laying down arms if a sovereign Palestinian state is formally recognized and established. This fundamental disagreement continues to hamper progress toward lasting peace and stability in the region.

The delicate situation remains volatile, with international observers urging both sides to maintain restraint and return to diplomatic negotiations. Israel’s warning of retaliation following the recent attack signals the potential for renewed conflict, raising concerns about the future of the ceasefire and the prospects for peace in Gaza.

As tensions simmer, the international community closely monitors developments, emphasizing the urgent need for dialogue to prevent further escalation and to work toward a sustainable resolution to one of the most enduring conflicts in the Middle East.

#World News #Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu #Gaza Updates