Hamas Accuses Netanyahu of Fabricating De-Escalation Claims in Gaza

The movement issued a statement on Saturday following reports that the Israeli premier allegedly directed the regime’s forces to cease all offensive operations along the coastal strip, permitting only defensive actions.

Hamas has criticized Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, claiming that ongoing bombings and attacks contradict his statements about scaling back military operations targeting civilians.

The statement condemned the ongoing actions of the Israeli military, accusing it of committing severe offenses and causing destruction against the Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip. It further mourned the recent loss of life, reporting that the latest Israeli offensive had resulted in the deaths of at least 70 individuals.

The group has asserted that the ongoing “bloody escalation highlights the deceitfulness of the regime’s claims” concerning the supposed reduction of military operations targeting unarmed civilians.

Earlier, Netanyahu was reported to have issued the order as he was directing the military to enhance “advancing readiness” for the execution of the “first part” of a 20-point plan devised by Trump.

Trump has announced that the proposal seeks to bring an end to the regime’s ongoing conflict, described as a war of genocide, in Gaza which began in October 2023.

Hamas announced its agreement with select aspects of the proposal on Friday, indicating its willingness to engage in negotiations aimed at facilitating the release of the remaining Israeli captives in Gaza, regardless of their condition.

The agreement also stipulates the transfer of administrative control of the territory to a “Palestinian body of independents (technocrats),” which is to be established in accordance with Palestinian national consensus and backed by Arab and Islamic support.

The group announced that its decision was driven by a strong desire to bring an end to the ongoing genocide, which has resulted in the deaths of approximately 66,300 Palestinians, predominantly women and children.

The movement announced that its response was formulated with a focus on national responsibility and a commitment to uphold the principles, rights, and paramount interests of the Palestinian people.

The response garnered widespread acclaim from numerous resistance organizations and nations for its balanced and politically astute approach.

Following a gesture of goodwill by Hamas, the Israeli military intensified its airstrikes on the northern region of the territory. The bombing campaign continued despite the attempted diplomacy.

In a report released Friday, American news outlet Axios revealed that Netanyahu dismissed Trump’s proposal, instructing his team to adhere to their pre-existing strategy prior to the U.S. president’s confirmation of Hamas’ response.