By Ceasefire negotiations in Gaza plunged into uncertainty on Sunday following contradictory statements from Hamas in response to an Israeli strike targeting its senior commander.
Israeli Strike Targets Hamas Commander
Israel claimed its weekend attacks were aimed at Mohammed Deif, leader of the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades. However, a Hamas official countered, stating Deif remained active despite an attempt on his life in a Saturday bombing on a Gaza displacement camp.
Hamas’s Decision on Ceasefire Talks
A Hamas official announced the group’s withdrawal from ceasefire negotiations, citing Israeli “massacres” and ongoing delays. However, another senior Hamas figure clarified that talks had not been abandoned, accusing Israel of escalating attacks to disrupt mediation efforts.
International Mediation Efforts
Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas’s Qatar-based political chief, conveyed concerns to international mediators regarding Israel’s alleged lack of seriousness, procrastination, and what was described as ongoing attacks on unarmed civilians. Haniyeh emphasized Hamas’s readiness to resume negotiations pending Israel’s commitment to a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement.
Stalled Mediation by Qatar and Egypt
Efforts by Qatar and Egypt, supported by the United States, to broker peace have failed for months. Egyptian security sources reported a temporary halt in negotiations following three days of intense talks in Doha and Cairo.
Continued Israeli Military Actions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened with ministers to discuss ongoing military operations in Gaza. The conflict has led to significant casualties, including at least 92 deaths and 300 wounded in Saturday’s strike on Al-Mawasi, a designated “safe zone.”
Denial and Accusations
A senior Hamas official denied Israeli claims of Deif’s death, accusing Israel of justifying the attack. Meanwhile, Izzat El-Reshiq from Hamas’s political office accused Israel of obstructing ceasefire efforts by escalating attacks.
Humanitarian Impact
Israeli forces continued airstrikes and ground shelling across Gaza, home to 2.3 million people, resulting in casualties including a strike on a UN-run school in Nuseirat camp, which killed 15 Palestinians and wounded dozens.
Human Toll and Political Response
Gaza’s health ministry reported over 38,584 Palestinians killed and 88,881 injured since October 7, with Netanyahu promising continued pressure on Hamas leadership to facilitate a potential prisoner exchange.
