Hamas Claims Israeli Ground Operations Violate Gaza Ceasefire Agreement
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Synopsis
On March 20, Hamas condemned Israeli ground operations in central Gaza as a serious violation of the ceasefire, alleging U.S. support for these actions. Hamas warned of potential retaliation and criticized the lack of progress in negotiations, asserting that no prisoner releases would occur without a commitment to end hostilities.
Key Takeaways
- Hamas views Israeli ground operations as a breach of ceasefire.
- U.S. accused of backing Israeli military actions.
- Hamas prepares for potential retaliation against Israel.
- Ongoing negotiations show no progress due to Israel's stance.
- Hamas demands conditions for prisoner releases.
Gaza, March 20 (NationPress) Hamas stated that the Israeli army's ground operation in the central Gaza Strip represents a serious breach of the ceasefire agreement, alleging that the United States is providing support for these military actions.
Sami Abu Zuhri, a prominent Hamas official, expressed in a press release that "the movement of Israeli military vehicles into the Netzarim Corridor, along with the isolation of northern Gaza from the south, undermines the ceasefire agreement with U.S. backing," urging mediators to assume their responsibilities regarding the situation.
He mentioned that Hamas and other Palestinian factions "are ready to retaliate against this action," suggesting a potential return to hostilities against Israel, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
In terms of the ongoing discussions, Abu Zuhri indicated that "there has been no advancement in talks with mediators since the occupation refuses to participate in negotiations."
He reiterated that Hamas "will not release Israeli prisoners unless the occupation agrees to cease hostilities, fully withdraw from Gaza, and lift the blockade on the Strip."
Israel has initiated a targeted ground operation in central and southern Gaza, intending to establish a buffer zone between the northern and southern regions of the Palestinian territory, according to a military statement released on Wednesday.
The military noted that this operation began "within the last 24 hours," shortly after Israel concluded a two-month ceasefire and resumed aerial bombardments.
The military further stated that during this operation, Israeli forces "regained control and re-established their presence up to the core of the Netzarim Corridor," a military buffer zone created by Israeli soldiers in central Gaza during the conflict.
