Hamas has temporarily withdrawn from the Gaza ceasefire and hostage talks, citing Israeli “massacres” and a lack of seriousness in negotiations, AFP reported, citing Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh. According to the media outlet, the official already informed international mediators about halting the talks, while slamming Israel for its “continued policy of procrastination and obstruction” and attacks on unarmed civilians. The decision follows an Israeli airstrike on the Al-Mawasi area of Gaza, where displaced people were sheltering, which is said to have killed 90 Palestinians.
Israeli defends operation to eliminate Hamas leader
Israeli Foreign Minister Yisrael Katz defended on Saturday the recent operation targeting Muhammad Deif, head of Hamas’s military wing, as “more than justified.” The airstrike in the al-Mawasi area of Khan Younis aimed to eliminate high-ranking Hamas members, including Deif, who is considered a top leader in Gaza’s military-political hierarchy. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that while there is no certainty Deif was killed, the operation was necessary due to his involvement in severe attacks against Israelis, including the October 7 massacre. Katz emphasized Deif’s responsibility for ongoing terrorist activities. NN: Every day more and more Hamass leaders get sliced and diced… As they should Be.