Israel’s Defence Minister Warns Hamas Leaders “Will Have No Immunity” After Renewed Gaza Strikes

Israel’s Defence Minister Issues Stern Warning To Hamas Leaders

Tensions are once again rising in the Middle East after Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning to Hamas leadership, declaring that “no one will have immunity” in the wake of fresh Israeli airstrikes on Gaza.

Katz’s statement followed reports of renewed clashes that left several Israeli soldiers injured, prompting a swift and forceful response from the Israel Defense Forces. “There will be no immunity for anyone in the leadership of the terrorist organisation Hamas neither for those in suits nor for those hiding in tunnels,” Katz said.

His remarks appeared to target both the military and political wings of Hamas, including top figures based in Doha, Qatar. “Whoever raises a hand against an Israeli soldier, his hand will be severed,” Katz added, vowing that the Israeli military would continue acting “decisively” against Hamas targets.

Mediation Efforts Under Strain

The latest round of hostilities comes despite an internationally backed peace framework designed to end years of bloodshed. Qatar, which has served as a key mediator between Israel and Hamas since the outbreak of the war in October 2023, is among the guarantors of the fragile truce alongside Egypt, Turkey, and the United States.

Observers fear that Katz’s comments may further complicate the delicate negotiations, which have already faced multiple setbacks. On social media, reactions were divided: some Israeli users applauded the tough stance as necessary for national defence, while others voiced concern that it could undo months of fragile diplomacy.

A Fragile Peace Under Threat

The peace process which followed two years of relentless fighting remains precarious. In September, an Israeli airstrike on Hamas negotiators in Doha drew widespread condemnation, including from US President Donald Trump, who brokered the subsequent ceasefire.

Weeks later, both sides accepted a 20-point peace plan proposed by Trump that included a ceasefire and the exchange of Gaza hostages for Palestinian prisoners.

However, with the latest escalation and Katz’s renewed threats, that fragile peace may once again be at risk. Analysts warn that even a single misstep could unravel the entire framework, reigniting one of the most volatile conflicts in modern history.

{Source:EWN}

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