The U.S. State Department has issued a formal warning that it possesses credible intelligence indicating Hamas may be preparing a direct assault on Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip, an action which would breach the terms of the current cease-fire agreement.
According to a statement released by the department, such an attack “would constitute a direct and grave violation” of the truce, undermining the diplomatic progress achieved by involved mediators. The cease-fire in question was brokered following a two-year conflict between Israel and Hamas. It included commitments from both sides to refrain from targeting civilians, allow humanitarian access, and facilitate the release of hostages.
In response to the warning, U.S. officials reaffirmed their commitment to protect civilian lives and maintain stability across the region. They stated that the United States and other guarantors of the deal are ready to hold Hamas accountable if it moves forward with violence.
Meanwhile, Hamas denied the allegations, categorically rejecting the claim that it is planning any such strikes and accusing Israel of orchestrating provocations to disrupt the agreement. The dispute comes at a delicate moment for the cease-fire, as aid deliveries remain constrained and key issues such as disarmament and reconstruction in Gaza remain unresolved.