The U.S. Department of State on Saturday warned that there are “credible reports” suggesting “an imminent ceasefire violation by Hamas against the people of Gaza.” The department said it has shared this information with countries that are guaranteeing the Gaza ceasefire agreement.
In its official statement, the department stressed that any such act would be a serious breach of the deal. “This planned attack against Palestinian civilians would constitute a direct and grave violation of the ceasefire agreement,” it said. “Should Hamas proceed with this attack, measures will be taken to protect the people of Gaza and preserve the integrity of the ceasefire,” it added.
Tensions Rise After Naval Incident
The warning came shortly after Gaza-based media reported that an Israeli Navy vessel had fired shots near the Khan Yunis beach in southern Gaza. The incident occurred amid growing tension in the region. It also came on the same day Hamas handed over the remains of two hostages.
Hamas Seeks to Reassert Control
Under pressure from Israel and U.S. President Donald Trump, Hamas urged mediators on Friday to ensure the full implementation of the remaining parts of the ceasefire agreement. In a statement, the group said a “community support committee” must be formed to help manage Gaza’s internal affairs.
At the same time, reports suggest Hamas is working to strengthen its control over the region. According to The Jerusalem Post, since the ceasefire began, Hamas has killed at least 32 people in what appears to be a campaign against anti-Hamas clans in Gaza.
Trump Warns Hamas Over Ceasefire
President Trump warned Hamas against further violence in Gaza. On TruthSocial, he wrote, “if Hamas continues to kill people in Gaza, which was not the Deal, we will have no choice but to go in and kill them.”
In an interview with CNN, Trump also said he would consider allowing Israeli forces to resume military operations in Gaza if Hamas fails to follow the ceasefire terms.
Israel Resumes Targeted Strikes
On Friday, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that it carried out limited strikes for the first time since the ceasefire began. The military said it targeted Hamas fighters seen coming out of a tunnel shaft and firing at Israeli troops in Rafah, southern Gaza.
A Fragile Peace at Risk
The U.S. warning highlights the fragile nature of the current ceasefire. Any attack by Hamas could trigger a renewed conflict and end the brief period of calm in Gaza. Washington’s statement signals that it may act to protect civilians and maintain the truce if the situation escalates.