Hamas has accused Nikolay Mladenov, head of the so-called Board of Peace in Gaza, of fuelling the escalating situation in the enclave and urged him to stop what it described as incitement against Gaza and the movement, and to support efforts to end the war without introducing further complications.
In a recorded statement, Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem said the movement is holding intensive contacts and in-depth meetings with various relevant parties in an effort to contain the worsening situation and halt what he described as the “dangerous aggression” against Gaza’s residents.
Qassem said Hamas is working on all fronts to ensure the implementation of the ceasefire agreement, particularly with regard to requiring Israel to fulfil its obligations under the first phase of the deal. He warned that any failure to meet those commitments would further increase tensions in Gaza.
He also held Mladenov responsible for the escalation, accusing him of providing “briefings that contradict reality” during UN Security Council sessions and of inciting against Gaza and Hamas during various meetings.
Qassem called on the international official to adhere to the plan to end the war in Gaza, warning that any additional complications could provide Israel with justification to continue its military escalation in the enclave.
READ: Hamas urges Board of Peace to condemn Israeli plans to expand control over Gaza
