Hamas denies clashes as Israel launches strikes in Rafah despite ceasefire
Fresh Israeli strikes in southern Gaza occur even after a phased ceasefire and prisoner exchange plan aimed at reducing tension.
The Israeli army launched air strikes in Rafah in southern Gaza on Sunday despite a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, local media said.
Israel’s public broadcaster KAN said that the strikes were staged following an exchange of fire with Hamas.
Channel 12 claimed that the attack came after a military vehicle was targeted by Hamas.
Hamas ‘unaware’ of clashes
Hamas armed wing said on Sunday that it was unaware of any incidents or clashes in Gaza's Rafah, shortly after what Israel said it carried out air strikes in the area to remove what it deemed a threat after "terrorists" opened fire on troops.
The Palestinian resistance group reiterated it is committed to all that has been agreed upon including a ceasefire in all areas in Gaza.
‘Fragile ceasefire’
A ceasefire and prisoner swap agreement was reached between Israel and Hamas last week, based on a phased plan presented by US President Donald Trump.
Phase one included the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
The plan also envisages the rebuilding of Gaza and the establishment of a new governing mechanism without Hamas.
Since October 2023, the Israeli genocidal war has killed more than 68,100 people and injured 170,200, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.