Explosion in Gaza Injures Soldier, Israel Accuses Hamas of Ceasefire Breach

The blast occurred as Hamas officials were meeting with Turkish representatives in Ankara to discuss the second phase of the ceasefire. Although the agreement has largely remained in effect, progress has slowed. Nearly all of the 251 hostages captured during the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023—which sparked the war—have been released, either alive or deceased, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The second stage of the truce faces greater challenges, including the deployment of an international stabilization force, the establishment of a technocratic governing body for Gaza, Hamas disarmament, and additional Israeli troop withdrawals.

Israel Vows Retaliation

Israel’s military reported that the explosive detonated beneath a military vehicle while soldiers were dismantling militant infrastructure in the southern city of Rafah. The soldier suffered light injuries and was transported to a hospital. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incident as a violation of the ceasefire and stated that Israel would "respond accordingly."

Previously, Israel carried out airstrikes in Gaza in retaliation for alleged ceasefire breaches. On October 19, Israel reported that two soldiers were killed by Hamas fire, prompting strikes that killed over 40 Palestinians, according to local health authorities. Hamas has accused Israel of violating the truce by restricting humanitarian aid and continuing attacks on civilians. Palestinian officials report that more than 370 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since the ceasefire began. On Friday, Israeli forces fired across the ceasefire line in northern Gaza, killing at least five Palestinians, including an infant, according to a local hospital that received the casualties.

Turkish Officials Meet Hamas

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with a Hamas delegation led by Khalil al-Haya to discuss the next phase of the ceasefire, ministry officials said. Fidan reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to protecting Palestinian rights and outlined ongoing efforts to address shelter and other humanitarian needs in Gaza.

The Hamas delegation stated that it had complied with the ceasefire terms but that continued Israeli attacks were obstructing progress. They also noted that 60% of trucks entering Gaza were carrying commercial goods rather than humanitarian aid. The meeting additionally addressed reconciliation among Palestinian factions and the situation in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, emphasizing that Israel’s actions in the region were “unacceptable.”