US State Department warns Gaza peace deal at risk of collapse
Illustrative photo: US State Department warns Gaza peace deal at risk of collapse (Getty Images)
Washington has warned the guarantor countries of the Gaza ceasefire about a potential Hamas attack, saying such actions could jeopardize the fragile peace process, according to a US State Department statement.
The United States has sent a warning to the guarantor countries of the Gaza peace agreement, citing credible intelligence indicating that Hamas is preparing a new attack against civilians.
Warning on potential violation of peace process
According to the US State Department document, such an attack would constitute a serious breach of the agreed terms and could endanger the fragile balance achieved through international mediation efforts.
The statement emphasized that "this planned attack against Palestinian civilians would constitute a direct and grave violation of the ceasefire agreement," urging the guarantor states to demand that Hamas fully comply with its obligations under the current ceasefire.
Possible response measures
The document further noted that, should Hamas carry out the attack, the international community would take steps to protect Gaza’s civilians and preserve the ceasefire framework.
"Measures will be taken to protect the people of Gaza and preserve the integrity of the ceasefire," the statement said.
The US and its partners reaffirmed their determination to protect civilians, uphold regional stability, and continue efforts to ensure peace and security in the Middle East.
The Rafah border crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt has once again become a source of tension. Israel has suspended its operation indefinitely, stating that it will only reopen once Hamas hands over the bodies of deceased Israeli hostages, a move that underscores the fragility of the existing agreements and the severity of the humanitarian situation in the region.
Meanwhile, the Israeli government is facing a potential political crisis after National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir threatened to withdraw his far-right party from the ruling coalition unless Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu fulfills his demands, the destruction of Hamas and the implementation of the death penalty for convicted terrorists. Ben-Gvir has reportedly set a personal deadline for these conditions to be met.
