Daijiworld Media Network - Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Dec 25: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday accused Hamas of violating the Gaza ceasefire agreement after an Israeli military officer was wounded by an explosive device in the southern city of Rafah, warning that Israel would respond accordingly.

In a statement, Netanyahu’s office said Hamas must fully adhere to the October ceasefire agreement, which envisages the militant group’s removal from power in Gaza along with the demilitarisation and deradicalisation of the territory. “Israel will respond accordingly,” the statement said, without providing further details.

Earlier, the Israeli military said an explosive device had detonated against a military vehicle in the Rafah area, leaving one officer lightly injured.

While large-scale violence has subsided since the truce came into effect on October 10, sporadic incidents have continued, with both sides repeatedly accusing each other of ceasefire violations. Gaza’s health ministry has claimed that more than 400 people have been killed in Israeli actions in the territory since the ceasefire began.

The developments come amid efforts to push forward a broader peace framework outlined in a 20-point plan issued by US President Donald Trump in September. The plan calls for an initial truce followed by steps towards lasting peace, including Hamas disarming and relinquishing any governing role in Gaza, and a full Israeli withdrawal from the territory, which remains devastated after two years of conflict.

However, major differences persist. Hamas has stated it would only consider laying down its arms if a Palestinian state is established, underscoring the fragile nature of the current ceasefire.