State Department Warns of Potential Imminent Ceasefire Violation by Hamas

The U.S. State Department announced on Saturday that Hamas, a group recognized by the U.S. as a terrorist organization, is reportedly planning an “imminent” assault on Palestinians in Gaza. Such an act could breach the recent peace agreement with Israel, barely a week after its establishment.

“This proposed attack on Palestinian civilians would represent a serious violation of the ceasefire agreement and jeopardize the progress made through diplomatic negotiations,” stated officials in a message posted on social media platform, X.

The statement further warned that if the attack unfolds, the United States is prepared to take action to “protect the people of Gaza and uphold the ceasefire’s integrity.”

“The United States, along with other stakeholders, remains firm in our dedication to ensuring civilian safety, maintaining tranquility on the ground, and fostering peace and prosperity for Gaza and the wider region,” the statement concluded.

Following the initial implementation of a 20-point peace plan brokered between Israel and Hamas, under the supervision of President Trump, there are concerns that Hamas is seeking to consolidate its grip on Gaza through a series of punitive executions.

The militant group has killed at least 33 people as of Tuesday, when the ceasefire went into effect, according to Reuters.

Trump said on Tuesday that if Hamas did not lay down their weapons, “we will disarm them.” Should Hamas not follow the peace plan, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are allowed to resume military operations in Gaza.

The IDF said on Saturday that two coffins carrying the remains of dead hostages entered Israel. They will be taken to the Ministry of Health’s National Institute for Forensic Medicine for identification.

Hamas told Israel that it was committed to handing over the bodies of 28 hostages. The group has so far returned less than half back to Israel, with one not belonging to any of the dead hostages.