Conflict Escalation in Gaza as Hamas Criticizes Netanyahu for Blocking Truce Talks

Hamas has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of obstructing negotiations aimed at establishing a truce and releasing hostages amid ongoing conflict. The group contends that the increasing Israeli military actions across the Gaza Strip are hindering efforts to end the war.

Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh issued a warning on Monday about the severe consequences of the situation in Gaza, suggesting that the current hostilities could restart negotiations from scratch. Haniyeh placed full responsibility for the potential collapse of the negotiation efforts on Netanyahu and the Israeli military.

In recent developments, Hamas leader Haniyeh urgently contacted mediators from Qatar and Egypt to address the escalating actions by Israeli forces, which have issued further evacuation orders affecting thousands of Palestinians.

The latest evacuation orders targeted areas in Gaza City, compelling many residents to relocate multiple times amidst the conflict. On Sunday, the Israeli military demanded the immediate evacuation of several Gaza City neighborhoods, exacerbating the displacement crisis within the already densely populated enclave.

Al Jazeera’s Hind Khoudary reported that Palestinians had been ordered to evacuate to the center of the Gaza Strip, an area already struggling with a massive influx of displaced individuals.

The overcrowded conditions have left many Palestinians reluctant to evacuate, preferring to stay despite the dangers rather than face the indignity and hardship of living in makeshift camps with limited access to basic necessities. Khoudary noted that some people had chosen to remain due to the absence of safe alternatives.

The conflict has led to a high number of casualties, with Gaza’s health ministry reporting over 38,000 Palestinians killed and nearly 88,000 wounded since October 7. The situation has further deteriorated with Israeli forces attacking tent camps and densely populated areas, leading to significant loss of life and ongoing humanitarian challenges.

The Israeli military has expanded its operations, pressing into the heart of Gaza City and continuing heavy bombardments in areas like Shujayea.

Amidst these developments, efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States to mediate a ceasefire continue. Hamas has shown some flexibility by dropping its demand for a permanent ceasefire before signing an agreement.

However, Netanyahu’s office remains firm that any deal must allow Israel to resume military operations until all war objectives are achieved. Despite these challenges, mediators are scheduled to convene new meetings this week to seek a resolution.