The United States has squarely accused Hamas of violating the extended ceasefire, with Vice President Kamala Harris addressing the Gaza situation and efforts to end the conflict during the climate summit in Dubai, engaging with Arab leaders and other heads of nations.
Reports indicate that Israeli military forces resumed airstrikes on the Gaza Strip after Hamas ended the weeklong ceasefire. Israel claims that the resumption of hostilities was prompted by Hamas firing rockets towards Israel, citing a violation of the ceasefire.
In response, Hamas officials blamed Israel, asserting that they rejected offers to release elderly hostages and claimed bodies of three hostages allegedly killed in Israeli airstrikes during the truce. The ceasefire, lasting a week, resulted in the release of over 100 hostages, predominantly women and children, including two Americans. However, seven Americans, including one woman, remain unaccounted for.
Over 240 Palestinians imprisoned in Israel were released in exchange during the truce. The White House noted that Hamas failed to provide a list of hostages they would release, with conflicting narratives between Israel and Hamas on the reasons for the truce's end.
John Kirby, the National Security Council's coordinator for strategic communications, attributed the end of the pause to Hamas, stating that they were unable to produce a list of hostages to extend the ceasefire.
President Joe Biden and the National Security Council are actively involved in hostage negotiations and efforts to end the conflict. The U.S. is making significant efforts to secure another pause and release more hostages, with Qatar and Egypt working as international mediators to renew the truce.
While in Dubai for the climate summit, Vice President Harris aims to discuss the war with Arab leaders and heads of other nations in attendance. The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed deep concern about the ongoing fighting, particularly regarding the collapsing healthcare system in Gaza due to the resumed Israeli aerial bombardment. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the critical situation, stating that Gaza cannot afford to lose any more hospitals or hospital beds.
(With Agency Inputs)
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