Rocket Strike Near Gaza Hospital Marks Another Ceasefire Violation by Hamas

A rocket launched from Hamas-controlled Gaza landed near a hospital on Thursday, marking yet another violation of the fragile ceasefire agreement. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that the launch originated from Gaza City and landed within the Strip’s territory. In response, Israeli forces swiftly struck the launch point in what they described as a “targeted manner.”

The IDF condemned the incident, stating it “views with great severity any attempt by terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip to carry out terror plots against IDF forces and the civilians of the State of Israel.”

This is the second breach of the ceasefire in just 24 hours.

On Wednesday, Israeli forces eliminated a key Hamas terrorist involved in multiple attacks against troops in northern Gaza. According to a joint statement by the IDF and the Israel Security Agency (Shin Bet), the gunman was responsible for plotting assaults on IDF soldiers operating in the area. “This shooting constitutes a blatant violation of the ceasefire agreement,” the statement read.

Earlier this week, a similar strike was carried out in southern Gaza against another Hamas operative who posed an “imminent threat” to IDF personnel. Israeli military officials emphasized that their operations are precise and defensive, targeting only those planning or executing attacks.

Despite the U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement established in October, Hamas has repeatedly exploited the situation by attempting to ambush Israeli forces along the so-called Yellow Line the ceasefire boundary within Gaza. The IDF has responded decisively, making it clear that threats to Israeli troops or civilians will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Meanwhile, broader diplomatic efforts are underway. Axios reported that President Donald Trump is expected to announce the formation of the "Gaza Board of Peace" as part of Phase 2 of the ceasefire framework. The board, expected to include leaders from the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, will oversee the creation of a technocratic Palestinian administration in Gaza and direct reconstruction efforts.

Former U.N. envoy Nikolay Mladenov is slated to represent the board on the ground. His visit to Israel this week for consultations with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underscores the gravity and urgency of the situation.

Netanyahu’s agreement to proceed with the second phase of the ceasefire during his recent meeting with Trump is believed to have paved the way for this next diplomatic initiative.

As Israel balances diplomacy with defense, one thing remains unchanged: Hamas continues to test the limits of international agreements, placing innocent lives on both sides of the border in jeopardy.

Israel stands firm in its commitment to protecting its citizens and responding to any breach of peace with strength and precision.

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