Tensions in Gaza continue to escalate despite the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. According to Gaza’s Government Media Office, since the truce began on October 10, Israel has violated the agreement at least 47 times. So far, 38 Palestinians have been killed and 143 others injured in these incidents.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Gaza Media Office alleged that Israel’s violations — brokered under U.S. President Donald Trump’s mediation — include direct shootings at civilians, deliberate shelling, and arrests of unarmed citizens.
The Gaza authorities have called on the United Nations and other mediating parties to immediately intervene and compel Israel to halt its aggression and protect unarmed civilians.
Reports of fresh Israeli attacks were received on Sunday from various parts of the Gaza Strip, particularly in Rafah in the south and Jabalia in the north. At least two people were killed and several others injured in these assaults.
Although the ceasefire agreement included provisions for humanitarian aid to enter Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that the Rafah crossing will remain closed until Hamas returns the bodies of all deceased Israeli captives. This crossing is one of the main routes for humanitarian supplies to reach Gaza.
Netanyahu’s office confirmed that after his cabinet accused Hamas of violating the truce, he instructed the military to take strong action inside Gaza.
Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee claimed that their actions were in response to “serious violations” of the ceasefire. He further warned that Israel would respond “firmly and forcefully.”
The Israeli army accused Hamas of launching rocket and sniper attacks on its forces inside Gaza. However, Hamas denied any involvement, reaffirming its full commitment to the ceasefire. The group also stated that it was unaware of any incidents or clashes in the Rafah area.
These latest Israeli attacks have once again put the fragile ceasefire at risk. The truce had allowed limited humanitarian aid to enter Gaza.
According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, since Israel’s war began in October 2023, 68,159 people have been killed and 170,203 injured. More than 2 million people have been displaced, most of Gaza’s infrastructure destroyed, and nearly the entire population remains dependent on humanitarian assistance.