Hamas has accused Israel of violating the Gaza ceasefire through renewed military escalation, stating that the breakdown reflects the international community’s failure to uphold the truce agreement.
The group’s statement, issued through its official channels, pointed to Israeli airstrikes and ground operations in southern and central Gaza as evidence of bad-faith actions undermining the ceasefire that took effect in January. Hamas claimed these operations have resulted in civilian casualties and disrupted humanitarian aid delivery, despite ongoing negotiations mediated by Egypt and Qatar.
Israeli officials have not publicly responded to the specific allegations but have previously stated that military actions are conducted in response to rocket fire and threats from militant groups within Gaza. The Israel Defense Forces maintain that operations are targeted and proportionate, aimed at preventing future attacks.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported renewed displacement in Rafah and Khan Younis following increased Israeli military activity, with over 10,000 people displaced in a 48-hour period earlier this month. Humanitarian access remains severely restricted, according to UNRWA, which cited repeated denials of entry for aid convoys at key checkpoints.
Egyptian intelligence officials, who have played a central role in brokering and monitoring the ceasefire, convened an urgent meeting with representatives from Hamas and Israeli security channels in Cairo on February 20. The talks, described by sources as “tense but ongoing,” focused on restoring compliance with the truce terms, including the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces and the release of detainees.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire framework, calling on all parties to avoid unilateral actions that could jeopardize the agreement. Doha has hosted indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israeli representatives since November 2023.
The United States National Security Council declined to comment on the specific allegations but affirmed its support for the ceasefire as the best path toward regional stability and the release of hostages. Washington continues to pressure both sides to refrain from actions that could reignite broader conflict.
As of February 25, no formal violation has been declared by the ceasefire monitoring committee, which includes Egyptian and Qatari mediators alongside UN observers. The committee has called for an immediate de-escalation and urged both sides to return to dialogue.
Hamas has not indicated whether it will suspend participation in negotiations, but internal sources said the group is reviewing its options in light of continued Israeli operations. No timeline has been set for the next round of talks.
