Gaza Ceasefire Tensions Escalate Amidst International Diplomacy

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) will not play a role in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza amid a US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Rubio expressed concerns over UNRWA's alleged ties to Hamas, citing that it has become a 'subsidiary of Hamas.' The US and Israel have taken a hard stance against UNRWA, particularly after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. UNRWA has demanded to be allowed to work in Gaza, citing its logistical network and trust from the community.

The article reveals that Israel is backing four anti-Hamas militias in Gaza as part of a plan to remove Hamas from power. The militias, led by Hossam al Astal, Yasser Abu Shabab, Rami Halas, and Ashraf al Mansi, are operating from areas under Israeli control and receiving supplies and coordination from the Israeli military. The militias claim to be part of a joint project to achieve full control of the Gaza Strip and provide basic support to civilians. The article suggests that the Palestinian Authority (PA) may be playing a key role in coordinating with the Israeli military, although the PA has denied any relationship with the militias.

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged the US to take action against Israel for allegedly breaching the Gaza ceasefire deal. Erdogan suggested that Washington should consider sanctions and halting arms sales to pressure Israel into complying with the truce. The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, visited Israel and discussed the planned international security force for Gaza, stating that it should comprise countries Israel is comfortable with. Rubio also warned Israel against annexing the occupied West Bank, saying it would threaten the peace process.