Renewed Violence in Gaza Puts Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Under Strain

Mon Oct 20 2025 19:51:47 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A deadly spike in violence following a recent ceasefire raises concerns over the stability of peace efforts in Gaza as both sides grapple with new tensions.

After a relatively quiet period following a ceasefire agreement, violence has erupted in Gaza with the Israel Defense Forces conducting airstrikes that resulted in numerous casualties. This escalation has led to fears that the fragile truce could unravel, prompting urgent calls for mediation to sustain the peace.

One week ago, US President Donald Trump was given a hero's welcome in Israel after securing the Gaza ceasefire and exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners.

But the days since have shown just how precarious the ceasefire is, and Sunday brought its biggest test so far.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a series of deadly strikes across Gaza, after two soldiers were killed in an attack it blamed on Hamas. An Israeli security official announced the suspension of aid deliveries.

It appears US pressure ensured the truce was not derailed and that Israel's crossings with Gaza reopened on Monday. Now it is clear mediators must stay closely involved to shore up the deal and settle key issues on the future of Gaza and Hamas.

Already, the president's special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are back in the region while Hamas negotiators are meeting Egyptian mediators and Palestinian factions in Cairo.

All are expected to discuss the second phase of Trump's 20-point peace plan, which involves deploying an international stabilisation force in Gaza, the eventual withdrawal of the IDF and critically, the disarmament of Hamas.

Palestinians and Israelis have been shaken by the latest breakdown.

Bernie father, Shadi Abu Obeid told the BBC in Khan Younis as he fought back tears at the funeral of his 14-year-old son Mohammed early on Monday.

He mentioned being more relaxed due to the ceasefire and allowing his son to go out with friends, thinking that the situation was quiet and safe.

At least 45 Palestinians were killed, local hospitals report, after the IDF said it struck dozens of Hamas terror targets throughout the Gaza Strip. Reports also indicate several members of Hamas's armed wing were among the dead.

Trump's envoys have been expected to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prior to these escalations.

Speaking to journalists on Air Force One, President Trump reiterated the desire for peace, noting the potential of internal violence from Hamas but suggesting it might be isolated issues rather than coordinated actions from leadership.

The IDF has maintained that its strikes were defensive, following attacks from Hamas that violated the ceasefire. It marks yet another chapter in the ongoing conflict that continues to challenge international diplomatic efforts for lasting peace in the region.