Hamas Leader Warns That Israeli Actions Threaten Ceasefire Negotiations

Israel has intensified its assault on Gaza City, with Hamas leaders warning that this threatens ceasefire negotiations.

Representatives of Hamas have cautioned that the advance of Israeli forces into the depths of Gaza City endangers discussions aimed at halting hostilities. Thousands of Palestinians have been forced to flee the city, where Israeli Defense Forces are engaged in combat against Hamas and Islamic Jihad militants, who, according to Israeli intelligence, have regrouped there.

Residents report shelling and gunfire from tanks, as well as airstrikes. Both Israel and Hamas had reportedly approached an agreement for a ceasefire for the first time in several months, according to multiple sources. This development emerged after the group abandoned its key demand for a conclusion to the war that included the release of hostages in exchange.

Negotiations are set to begin in the coming days in Doha, mediated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. Ismail Haniyeh, head of Hamas' political bureau, has warned that the Israeli assault in Gaza will have catastrophic consequences for the negotiations, and that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli army will bear full responsibility for any collapse.

Meanwhile, the latest Israeli order regarding evacuations in Gaza City concerns over 60 schools, where displaced Palestinians have taken refuge, as well as two hospitals and several medical points, according to reports from the UN.

Israel insists that terrorists are hiding among the civilian population by establishing their bases and strike points in schools, hospitals, and residential buildings.