TLDR: The US State Department warned of a potential Hamas attack against civilians in Gaza, calling it a serious ceasefire breach. Hamas denied the claim, accusing the US of spreading Israeli propaganda. Tensions remain high as both sides accuse each other of violating the fragile ceasefire deal.
What Happened
- On October 18, 2025, the US State Department issued a public warning about “credible reports” of an imminent Hamas attack on Palestinian civilians in Gaza, calling it a “grave violation” of the ceasefire.
- The US said that if the attack proceeds, “measures will be taken to protect the people of Gaza and preserve the integrity of the ceasefire.”
- The warning was posted on the State Department’s official website and X account at around 3:05 PM PDT and shared with mediators Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey.
Hamas's Response
- On October 19, Hamas denied the US claims, calling them “baseless” and “Israeli propaganda.”
- Hamas said its forces are pursuing armed gangs inside Gaza with legal mechanisms and public support, accusing Israel of arming and funding these groups.
- The group urged the US to focus on Israel’s repeated violations, including attacks on civilians and obstruction of aid at the Rafah crossing.
Background on Ceasefire
- The ceasefire, brokered by President Donald Trump in late September 2025, ended a two-year war between Israel and Hamas.
- Key terms include phased hostage and prisoner releases, Hamas disarmament, and regional enforcement by guarantors like the US.
- So far, Israel has released 1,968 detainees, and Hamas has recalled 7,000 security forces to manage Gaza internally.
Reactions and Developments
- President Trump, speaking on October 18, warned that regional allies may act to protect the ceasefire but ruled out US troop involvement.
- Israel claimed Hamas had already violated the ceasefire by crossing restricted zones and tied the reopening of Rafah crossing to further hostage remains.
- Gaza’s media office accused Israel of 50 ceasefire violations, reporting 38 deaths and 143 injuries since the ceasefire began.
- Analysts and media noted the risk of internal Gaza tensions and potential collapse of the peace deal if violations continue.