US Issues Warning to Mediating Partners
The United States has alerted its mediating partners, Qatar, Turkey, and Egypt, regarding 'credible information indicating an imminent violation of the ceasefire by Hamas against the people of Gaza.' The warning, issued by the U.S. State Department on Saturday, October 18, 2025, described the potential assault on Palestinian civilians as a 'serious and direct violation of the ceasefire agreement' that could jeopardize ongoing mediation efforts.
The State Department did not provide specific details about the nature or timing of the alleged attack. However, the warning followed recent reports from Gaza concerning summary executions carried out by Hamas against rival clans and individuals suspected of collaborating with Israel.
Hamas Rejects US Claims as 'False Allegations'
In response to the US statement, Hamas on Sunday, October 19, 2025, strongly rejected the allegations. The Palestinian militant group labeled the claims as 'false allegations' and 'misleading Israeli propaganda,' asserting they provide cover for 'the occupation's continued crimes and organized aggression against our people.'
Hamas maintained that its police forces, with the support of residents, are fulfilling their national duty by pursuing militias and holding them accountable 'according to clear laws' to protect the people and property of Gaza. The group further accused Israel of having 'formed, armed, and funded criminal gangs' that have carried out acts of murder, kidnapping, and theft of aid trucks in Gaza.
Implications for the Ceasefire Agreement
The US warning emphasized that 'should Hamas proceed with this attack, measures will be taken to protect the people of Gaza and preserve the integrity of the ceasefire.' The ceasefire agreement, brokered by President Donald Trump, was intended to end a two-year conflict between Israel and Hamas and went into effect on October 10, 2025.
President Trump had previously warned on social media that 'if Hamas continues to kill people in Gaza, which was not the Deal, we will have no choice but to go in and kill them.' He later clarified that US troops would not be deployed, stating, 'It's not going to be us,' but that 'somebody will go in' under US auspices. The mediating partners, including the US, have reiterated their commitment to ensuring civilian safety and maintaining the fragile truce.
Recent Tensions and Hostage Returns
The warning comes amidst heightened tensions in the region. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted airstrikes on Hamas targets following alleged ceasefire violations, and two IDF soldiers were reportedly killed in Rafah. Additionally, the bodies of two Israeli hostages, Ronen Engel and Eliyahu Margalit, were returned by Hamas to Israel, more than two years after their abduction on October 7, 2023.
5 Comments
Fuerza
Both sides have a history of questionable actions, making it hard to discern facts from propaganda. The ceasefire is clearly fragile, and any misstep could lead to disaster.
Manolo Noriega
While the US aims to protect the ceasefire, these accusations against Hamas could also inflame the situation further. It's a delicate balance between warning and provocation.
Fuerza
Don't trust anything the US says about Hamas.
Ongania
More lies to destabilize the region and blame Palestinians.
Manolo Noriega
The US warning is serious, but Hamas's denial also highlights deep distrust. It's difficult to know the full truth, and civilians will suffer most regardless.