Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
The recently brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas faces its gravest threat yet, following a dramatic escalation in violence over the weekend. Israeli forces launched a series of airstrikes on Gaza Sunday, claiming provocation by Hamas sniper fire and rocket attacks targeting troops in the southern city of Rafah. The incident marks the most serious test of the U.S.-mediated truce, which came into effect just over a week ago.
According to Israeli military officials, Hamas fighters attacked Israeli troops stationed outside the so-called “yellow line” a demarcation drawn as part of the ceasefire deal to define Israel’s initial withdrawal perimeter. The Israeli military responded with artillery shelling and airstrikes that reportedly destroyed Hamas infrastructure in Rafah.
An Israeli source confirmed that troops suffered casualties, though the exact number was not disclosed. The IDF stated that around 20 targets across Gaza were hit during retaliatory strikes, while local reports suggested more than 30 air raids on the Khan Younis area alone.
Despite the intensifying violence, Hamas denied any involvement in attacks on Israeli forces in Rafah. In a statement, the group reaffirmed its commitment to the truce, saying it had no knowledge of any military operations violating the ceasefire in that area. The military wing, Al-Qassam Brigades, also distanced itself from the incident, insisting it remains committed to the agreement across all parts of Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened an emergency security meeting with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and senior military officials. He instructed the military to act “forcefully” against what he called “terrorist targets” in Gaza. “Hamas will pay a heavy price for every violation of the ceasefire,” said Defense Minister Israel Katz, warning that Israel’s response would intensify if the group failed to heed the message.
Internal Strife: Hamas Battles Rivals Within Gaza
Complicating matters further are reports of internal conflicts within the Gaza Strip. On the same day as the Rafah incident, Hamas announced it had carried out a security operation targeting what it called an Israeli-backed militia led by Yasser Abu Shabab. The group was allegedly operating in the same area where Israeli forces reported being attacked.
This development highlights a growing concern: the emergence of rival armed factions in Gaza, some of which are allegedly receiving support from Israel in a bid to undermine Hamas. Mohammed Shehada, a Gaza analyst with the European Council on Foreign Relations, noted that these militias often operate from Israeli-controlled zones, carry out attacks in other parts of Gaza, and retreat to safe havens under Israeli protection.
Since the truce was declared, Hamas has launched what it described as a “security campaign” to root out collaborators, mercenaries, looters, and others deemed threats to internal order. This crackdown has led to volatile confrontations between Hamas and other Palestinian factions, with violence erupting in various parts of the strip.
One of the most disturbing incidents was a public execution of eight individuals in Gaza City’s main square, accused of collaboration with Israel. The executions, witnessed by large crowds, drew sharp condemnation from human rights observers and fueled further instability in the already war-ravaged territory.
U.S. Expresses Concern as Gaza Agreement Wobbles
The United States has expressed alarm over what it sees as a “credible and imminent” threat to the ceasefire. In a statement, the U.S. State Department warned of a potential Hamas operation targeting Gaza’s civilian population, calling it a “serious violation” of the truce that could undermine the diplomatic progress achieved in recent weeks.
A senior Israeli official, speaking anonymously to local media, claimed the military had evidence of at least three incidents on Sunday where Hamas fighters opened fire on Israeli forces behind the yellow line, which was supposed to act as a buffer zone under the terms of the agreement.
In retaliation, Israel executed targeted assassinations using drones, reportedly killing several Hamas operatives, particularly in central and northern Gaza. Additional airstrikes struck locations including Jabalia, Gaza City, al-Zawaida, and the al-Nuseirat refugee camp. At least 14 people were reported killed in these strikes, including several in the bombing of a school in Nuseirat.
As the violence escalated, Israel announced the suspension of humanitarian aid deliveries into Gaza and warned that it held Hamas responsible for any collapse of the ceasefire. The Israeli army called on Gaza residents to remain west of the yellow line and avoid areas of active military operations.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue to Prevent Total Collapse
Despite the spike in hostilities, international mediators, including the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, are reportedly working behind the scenes to salvage the truce. An Israeli security official acknowledged that American officials were engaging in urgent diplomatic talks to prevent a full-scale breakdown of the agreement.
Still, political pressure continues to mount on Netanyahu from within his own coalition. Far-right politicians, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, have called for a complete resumption of military operations in Gaza. “The war must continue at full strength,” Ben-Gvir said, accusing Hamas of exploiting the ceasefire.
On the other side, Hamas insists that it has abided by the terms of the ceasefire and accused Israel of fabricating violations to justify renewed aggression. The group also criticized Israel for failing to fully implement its commitments, particularly in regard to the release of Palestinian prisoners and the return of Israeli hostages’ remains.
The Future of the Truce Remains Uncertain
The so-called “yellow line” stretching from Beit Hanoun in the north to Rafah in the south now marks a fault line in a ceasefire that is increasingly fragile. With escalating military operations, mounting civilian casualties, and a deteriorating security environment, both sides are trading blame, while the people of Gaza face yet another cycle of fear, instability, and uncertainty.
Unless both parties re-commit to the ceasefire terms and external mediators can enforce compliance — the region may be on the brink of another prolonged and deadly conflict.
