Christmas violence erupted in Gaza with an explosion injuring an Israeli soldier, leading to accusations of a breach in the US-backed ceasefire by Hamas. On Christmas Eve, at least one Palestinian was killed and six others, including a child, were injured in Israeli attacks across Gaza amidst warnings from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
In Bethlehem, Palestinian Christians marked their first full Christmas celebration in two years, while in Gaza, the Christian community observed a subdued Christmas due to ongoing bombardments. Many churches in Gaza either scaled down or canceled Christmas activities, opting for small private gatherings inside the church.
Tragedy struck when Israeli forces fired on civilians in Jabalia, killing Ayoub Abdel Ayesh Nasr and injuring two others on Christmas Eve. The incident added tension to the fragile ceasefire in place since October 10, with both sides accusing each other of violations.
Israel reported an explosive device detonation in Rafah, injuring one soldier, while Hamas denied responsibility, suggesting the device was leftover by Israeli forces. Efforts to maintain peace involved an Israeli delegation meeting with mediators in Cairo to discuss the return of an Israeli captive’s remains from Gaza.
Hamas insisted on retaining arms until a Palestinian state is established, a condition Israel rejects. Netanyahu is scheduled to meet with President Donald Trump to discuss the next steps in the Gaza plan, which includes Hamas disarmament and Israeli withdrawal from the region.
Following the release of most hostages taken during the initial Hamas-led attack, negotiations aim to establish an international stabilisation force, a governing body for Gaza, disarmament of Hamas, and further Israeli troop withdrawals.
Israel’s military dismissed Hamas’s claim, labeling the Gaza explosion as a ceasefire violation, vowing a proportional response. Past Israeli strikes in Gaza were in retaliation to alleged breaches of the ceasefire.