Hamas has called on international ceasefire mediators to urgently intervene, following another series of Israeli airstrikes in Gaza that reportedly killed dozens of Palestinians and left many more injured. The renewed appeal comes amid growing concerns that ongoing negotiations could collapse as violence intensifies across the enclave.
According to Palestinian health authorities, the latest strikes targeted multiple areas in central and southern Gaza, including residential zones where displaced families had been sheltering. Medical officials reported that many of the casualties were civilians, with rescue workers struggling to reach those trapped under debris due to continued bombardment and damaged infrastructure.
In a statement released on Sunday, Hamas urged mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the United Nations to step up efforts to halt the fighting and push both sides toward an agreement. The group warned that without decisive action, humanitarian conditions in Gaza—already described by aid organizations as catastrophic—would continue to deteriorate rapidly.
Hamas spokespersons stated that the movement remains committed to ceasefire discussions but accused Israel of escalating attacks during negotiation efforts. They argued that continued strikes undermine the credibility of diplomatic channels and place additional pressure on Gaza’s civilian population.
Israel, however, has maintained that its operations are targeting Hamas military infrastructure, including command centers, weapons storage sites, and tunnel networks. Israeli officials asserted that the strikes were part of ongoing efforts to prevent further attacks on Israeli territory, claiming that militants continue to launch rockets and carry out operations from densely populated areas.
The Israeli government has repeatedly argued that Hamas bears responsibility for civilian casualties by operating within residential neighborhoods. Military spokespersons stated that the latest actions were based on intelligence assessments aimed at neutralizing ongoing threats.
As both sides exchange accusations, international mediators have expressed concern over the escalating violence. Egyptian officials, who have played a key role in previous ceasefire agreements, have reportedly intensified diplomatic contacts with both parties. Qatar has also continued efforts to facilitate dialogue, while the United Nations has called for immediate de-escalation to allow humanitarian access.
UN agencies and humanitarian groups have warned that Gaza’s health system is nearing collapse. Hospitals and clinics are struggling with shortages of medical supplies, fuel, and staff, while thousands of displaced people continue to seek shelter in overcrowded facilities. Aid convoys remain limited due to security concerns and logistical challenges.
International reactions to the latest developments have varied. Several governments have urged restraint and emphasized the need for a negotiated ceasefire. Human rights organizations have called for investigations into the impact of the strikes on civilians, stressing the importance of protecting non-combatants under international law.
Analysts note that the renewed violence threatens to derail ongoing efforts aimed at reaching a longer-term agreement. Previous ceasefire proposals have included provisions for the release of hostages held in Gaza, increased humanitarian aid, and security guarantees for Israel. However, disagreements over key terms continue to hinder progress.
With civilian casualties rising and diplomatic efforts facing significant obstacles, pressure is mounting on mediators to prevent further escalation. Observers warn that without a breakthrough, the conflict risks entering an even more destructive phase.
As events unfold, the international community remains focused on whether mediation efforts can succeed in halting the violence and easing the humanitarian crisis affecting millions of Palestinians in Gaza.