Over 850 Palestinians Killed as Israel Expands Gaza Control, Blames Hamas for Ceasefire Stalemate

TL;DR: Over 850 Palestinians have been killed since the October ceasefire and Israel has increased its controlled area in Gaza to at least 60%, blaming Hamas for blocking a civilian transition.

Context The ceasefire brokered in October was meant to halt hostilities and allow humanitarian aid. Both sides have accused each other of violating the agreement. The Board of Peace, a U.S.-backed body, released a report that places primary responsibility on Hamas.

Key Facts - More than 850 Palestinians have died since the ceasefire began. - Israeli forces have moved beyond the original ceasefire line, expanding direct control from 53% to at least 60% of Gaza’s territory. - Nickolay Mladenov, the high representative for Gaza, told the UN Security Council that Hamas refuses verified decommissioning, relinquishing coercive control, and allowing a genuine civilian transition, making it the “principal obstacle” to the ceasefire. - Hamas rejected the accusation, calling the report an attempt to justify further Israeli escalation. - Critics argue the Board of Peace’s narrative is one‑sided, noting Israel’s failure to meet its own obligations, such as delivering 600 trucks of aid daily and easing restrictions on dual‑use items needed for water and rubble removal. - Israeli analyst Gershon Baskin acknowledges Hamas’ willingness to begin disarmament but says the group’s demands for parallel Israeli steps remain unmet. - The National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, a technocratic panel created by the Board, has been blocked from entering Gaza, a move Israel says prevents a power vacuum similar to Lebanon’s.

What It Means The widening gap between the parties threatens to collapse the fragile truce. Israel’s territorial gains increase pressure on the remaining 40% of Gaza still under Hamas control, while the humanitarian situation deteriorates amid restricted aid flows. The Board’s focus on Hamas may legitimize further Israeli military actions if the ceasefire is deemed untenable. International observers warn that without balanced enforcement of obligations, the risk of renewed full‑scale conflict rises.

Looking Ahead Watch for UN Security Council debates on the ceasefire implementation and any movement by the National Committee to enter Gaza, which could shift the balance of power.