Hamas Denies Kidnapping Plans, Accuses Israel of Violating Ceasefire
Hamas has responded to Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz's warning that Gaza City would be evacuated southward if an Israeli civilian or soldier is abducted. Senior Hamas sources told the Qatari channel Al-Araby Al-Jadeed that they "deny the Israeli claims about preparations for operations or a plan to kidnap Israeli soldiers." The sources further stated that Hamas militants are "committed to the ceasefire agreement."
According to Hamas officials, Israel is preparing for aggression that includes an attack on civilian and governmental assets in the Gaza Strip. Hamas called for the establishment of a committee to verify Israel's claims and urged mediators to pressure Israel. Hamas also accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement.
Defense Minister Israel Katz had previously addressed a report by Channel 14, stating there was concrete intelligence regarding Hamas's intention to abduct an Israeli soldier or civilian. Speaking at a memorial ceremony for fallen soldiers of the Yom Kippur War, Katz warned that if an Israeli soldier or settler is kidnapped, Israel would respond with a broad operation in the Gaza Strip.
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