Hamas accuses Israel of ignoring mediators amid continued bombardment of Gaza

Hamas has accused Israel of disregarding international mediation efforts following continued bombardment across the Gaza Strip, saying the attacks undermine attempts to stabilise the situation.

Hazem Qassem, spokesperson for Hamas, said ongoing Palestinian casualties resulting from Israeli strikes demonstrate the occupation’s “blatant disregard” for mediators’ efforts and for the role of the Peace Council.

In a press statement issued on Thursday, Qassem said the Israeli occupation continues the war of extermination and destruction against the Palestinian people, arguing that only the methods — not the policy itself — have changed. He added that discussions by guarantor states about a ceasefire lack tangible implementation on the ground.

According to figures cited by Hamas, Israeli forces have killed 650 Palestinians since the ceasefire agreement came into effect, including 198 children and 85 women, and wounded 1,662 others during repeated violations.

The statement further noted that since the start of the war of extermination on 7th  October 2023, more than 72,000 Palestinians have been killed, around 172,000 injured and more than 8,000 reported missing. It also said widespread destruction has affected approximately 90 per cent of civilian infrastructure, with United Nations estimates placing reconstruction costs at about $70 billion.

READ: PLO official says Hamas not a terrorist organisation and rejects calls for disarmament