Gaza City, Gaza Strip – Israel expressed frustration over Hamas’s rejection of a proposed truce deal, citing the impact of a recent UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that Israel would not yield to what it deemed as unrealistic demands made by the Palestinian armed group.
The United States disputed Israel’s claims, labeling them as inaccurate. A state department spokesman asserted that Hamas’s response had been formulated prior to the Security Council vote. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari maintained that intelligence confirmed the elimination of Marwan Issa in an airstrike.
Hamas’s political official, Izzat al-Rishq, voiced skepticism regarding Israel’s assertions, emphasizing that the group’s military leadership would have the final say. Hagari described Issa as a key figure in Hamas’s attacks on southern Israel, resulting in casualties and hostages. The ongoing conflict has claimed over 32,400 lives in Gaza, with 81 reported deaths in the last 24 hours.
Following the Security Council’s resolution for an immediate ceasefire, Israel, backed by the US, criticized the measure for failing to condemn Hamas for past attacks. Despite abstaining from the vote, the US affirmed its support for the resolution’s core objectives. In response to the resolution, Israel canceled a planned visit to Washington to discuss military operations in Rafah, warning of potential humanitarian crises.
Hamas rejected a truce offer proposed during talks in Doha, reiterating demands for a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Israel reaffirmed its commitment to its objectives, including dismantling Hamas’s capabilities and securing the release of hostages.
The conflict shows no signs of abating, with reports of Israeli airstrikes causing significant casualties. Civilian fatalities continue to rise, sparking concerns about the safety of those trapped in the war zone. The situation remains precarious, with no immediate resolution in sight.