WASHINGTON — The United States is collaborating with Israel to establish a secure area for Gazans who are fleeing the terror instigated by Hamas, which is reportedly conducting cruel, public executions of Palestinians it suspects of collaborating with Israel, according to senior officials on Wednesday.
The proposed safe zone would be located within the “yellow line” of withdrawal set by the Israel Defense Forces following last week’s cease-fire, providing a refuge for those feeling threatened by Hamas without necessitating entry into Israel, as explained by a US official.
“This initiative is a direct response to reports about Hamas executing those they see as rivals,” the official noted. “Israel is deeply committed to ensuring safety for Gazans who seek to live peacefully, making this a priority effort that we advocated for.”
The US suggestion has been positively received by Israel, with the official remarking on the strong enthusiasm to establish this arrangement.
“After two years of conflict, it appears that Israel is demonstrating concern for the well-being of Gaza’s residents,” the official continued. “They aim to support those who wish to live in harmony and are renouncing Hamas, making a considerable effort to embrace and protect them.”
Simultaneously, US officials mentioned their ongoing efforts with mediators to convey the need for an end to the Hamas executions.
Earlier on Wednesday, Adm. Brad Cooper, the leader of US Central Command (CENTCOM), publicly condemned Hamas for its violent actions against Gazans on social media, calling for the group to “immediately halt violence against innocent Palestinian civilians across both Hamas-controlled areas of Gaza and those safeguarded by the IDF beyond the Yellow Line.”
“This marks a pivotal moment for peace,” Cooper stated. “Hamas has the chance to capitalize on it by ceasing hostilities, adhering to President Trump’s 20-point peace plan, and disarming promptly.”
He also mentioned that CENTCOM had shared their concerns with the mediators, expressing optimism regarding future peace in the region.
In interviews with The Post on Tuesday, frightened Gazans opposing Hamas recounted harrowing incidents of residents being yanked from their homes and executed on the streets without any form of due process.
“They annihilated an entire family,” recalled one witness. “They executed the elderly, the young, and the children — everyone from that family.
“Hamas is exacting vengeance on civilians.”
