Overview: Rising Tensions After Initial Truce
The fragile ceasefire in Gaza is facing renewed uncertainty as Israel and Hamas accuse each other of obstructing the second phase of a US-mediated peace agreement. The dispute intensified following the killing of a senior Hamas commander near Gaza City, an incident that both sides say undermines trust and threatens progress.
What the Ceasefire Agreement Promised
The ceasefire, which came into effect in October, was designed as a two-stage process:
Phase One
- Halt to major hostilities
- Exchange of living captives and prisoners
- Return of remains of those killed
- Increased humanitarian aid access into Gaza
Phase Two (Planned)
- Israeli military withdrawal
- Palestinian disarmament
- Formal end to the war
Advancement to phase two was contingent on the full implementation of phase one.
Hamas: Israel Violating the Truce
Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya confirmed the killing of senior commander Raed Saad, describing it as a serious breach of the ceasefire.
According to Hamas, continued Israeli military operations, targeted assassinations, and restrictions on humanitarian aid are undermining the agreement and risking its collapse. The group has urged mediators—particularly US President Donald Trump—to pressure Israel into honoring the terms of the truce.
Israel: Hamas Blocking Progress and Rearming
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected Hamas’s claims, accusing the group of refusing to hand over the remains of the last Israeli captive, Ran Gvili, which Israel says is a prerequisite for moving forward.
Netanyahu also alleged that Raed Saad was actively involved in rebuilding Hamas’s military capabilities, calling it a direct violation of the ceasefire’s spirit. Israel maintains that such actions justify continued security operations.
Diplomatic Strain and US Pressure
Reports suggest growing tension between the Israeli government and the Trump administration. While Washington is pushing for rapid implementation of phase two, Israel insists unresolved security and hostage issues must be addressed first.
Netanyahu emphasized that Israel will make decisions independently, stating that national security considerations override external pressure.
Why This Matters
With Gaza already devastated and millions dependent on aid, delays in the ceasefire process could reignite widespread violence. The outcome of these negotiations may determine whether the conflict moves toward resolution—or slips back into full-scale war.