Trump Exonerates Hamas Leaders, Blames 'Some Rebels' for Gaza Ceasefire Violations

President Donald Trump said the Gaza ceasefire between Israel and Hamas remains in effect, even after Israel launched dozens of airstrikes on Hamas targets following what it called attacks on Israeli forces. Trump blamed "some rebels within the movement" rather than Hamas leadership for the violations, signaling the fragile truce is still holding despite the latest flare-up.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump was asked directly if the ceasefire was still in place. "Yes it is," he responded. He pointed out that Hamas leadership wasn't involved in any breaches and instead blamed rogue elements within the organization.

"But anyway, it will be handled properly. It will be handled firmly, but properly," Trump added.

The Israeli military later announced it had resumed implementing the Gaza ceasefire after Hamas had "violated" it, indicating the strikes on the territory had ended.

Here's what happened: Israeli forces said Hamas fighters targeted military engineering vehicles in Rafah, in southern Gaza. Israel responded with airstrikes and artillery bombardment. But Hamas's military wing, the Qassam Brigades, said they had no knowledge of any incidents taking place in Rafah.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz had earlier ordered the military to "act forcefully" against Hamas targets in Gaza. He warned that the group "will pay a heavy price" for every shooting incident or ceasefire violation.

"Hamas will learn the hard way that the defense forces are determined to protect their soldiers and prevent any harm to them," Katz said. He added that if Hamas doesn't understand this message, "the responses will intensify."

According to a military source cited by the Times of Israel, more than 20 targets were struck since the Rafah incident began yesterday morning.

The exchange highlights how precarious the ceasefire remains. Both sides appear to be testing boundaries while trying to avoid a complete breakdown of the truce. Trump's distinction between Hamas leadership and "rebels" within the movement suggests the US is working to preserve the broader agreement despite these incidents.