Hamas Denies Rafah Shooting; Israel Cites Hostage Remains

Hamas denied responsibility for the shooting at IDF troops in Rafah and said it remains committed to the ceasefire while accusing Israel of repeated violations and urging mediators to pressure Israel to stop alleged breaches. Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, accused Hamas of violating the deal, pointed to the return of remains identified as Ofir Tzarfati (previously recovered in 2023) as evidence of a breach, and ordered forceful strikes and security consultations. The IDF reported exchanges of fire in Rafah and carried out artillery and air operations in Gaza City and other areas, with at least two people killed and several wounded in Israeli strikes. Israel released footage and statements alleging staging or manipulation in the handling of hostages’ remains and said not all deceased hostages have been returned as required under the deal; Hamas denied staging and reiterated its commitment to the truce. Both sides warned of further escalation if commitments were not honored.