Hamas Condemns Israeli Ground Operation as Gaza Ceasefire Collapses
December 1, 2023
Hamas has denounced Israel’s renewed ground operations in central Gaza, accusing the Israeli army of violating the recently established ceasefire agreement. Sami Abu Zuhri, a senior Hamas official, stated that Israel’s advance into the Netzarim Corridor, effectively isolating northern Gaza from the south, constitutes a significant breach of the truce.
“Israel’s actions undermine the ceasefire agreement and escalate tensions in the region,” Abu Zuhri said. “We call upon mediators to intervene immediately to halt this aggression.”
He warned that Hamas and other Palestinian factions are prepared to respond if the situation deteriorates further. “We are ready to defend our people and respond to this move,” he asserted, hinting at the possibility of resuming attacks against Israel.
Stalled Negotiations and Hostage Situation
Abu Zuhri expressed frustration over the lack of progress in negotiations. “There is no advancement in contacts with mediators because the occupation refuses to engage seriously in discussions,” he remarked.
He reaffirmed Hamas’s stance on the hostage situation, stating, “We will not release the Israeli prisoners unless the occupation commits to ending hostilities, fully withdraws from Gaza, and lifts the blockade on the Strip.”
Escalating Conflict and International Concern
Israel resumed ground operations on Tuesday after Hamas rejected the latest demand to extend the first phase of the ceasefire deal. The Israeli military justified the operations as necessary to expand the security perimeter and create a buffer zone between northern and southern Gaza.
Defense Minister Israel Katz warned of severe consequences if Hamas does not comply with Israeli demands. “Failure to release the hostages and dismantle Hamas will lead to total destruction,” he declared.
The renewed hostilities have resulted in over 400 Palestinian casualties, primarily women and children, marking one of the deadliest days in the conflict. The international community has voiced concern over the rising civilian toll and the damage to United Nations facilities.
On Wednesday, a UN worker was killed and five others were severely wounded during Israeli airstrikes in Gaza. “What’s happening in Gaza is unconscionable. I am shocked and devastated by this tragic news,” said Jorge Moreira da Silva, Executive Director of the UN Office for Project Services.
Analysts Weigh In
Analysts suggest that Israel’s actions are aimed at pressuring Hamas into negotiations and preventing the group from regaining strength. Qin Tian, deputy director of the Institute of Middle East Studies at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, commented that Israel seeks to use military pressure to secure the release of hostages.
“Israel wants to prevent Hamas from re-emerging as a formidable force on its border,” Qin Tian told China Media Group. “By applying military pressure, they aim to force Hamas into negotiations.”
