Israel and Hamas Exchange Blame Over Gaza Peace Plan Delays

Escalating Tensions After Strike

The implementation of the second phase of the US-mediated Gaza peace plan has been jeopardized as Israel and Hamas have exchanged blame following the death of senior Hamas commander Raed Saad in an Israeli airstrike near Gaza City. The incident has heightened tensions in the region and put the fragile ceasefire agreement at risk.

Accusations and Counter-Accusations

Hamas leadership in Gaza, through spokesperson Khalil al-Hayya, condemned Israel for violating the ceasefire agreement, stating that the killing of Raed Saad and other recent incidents threaten the continuation of the peace plan. In response, Israel alleged that Hamas was responsible for the delays by not handing over the remains of the last hostage and attempting to re-militarize.

Implications for the Peace Process

The current escalation poses significant challenges to the US-brokered peace initiative, which has been working to establish a lasting resolution in the conflict-ridden Gaza region. The successful implementation of the peace plan is now uncertain as both sides continue to exchange blame and neither appears willing to take responsibility for the current impasse.