Sun Nov 09 16:18:25 UTC 2025: News Article:

Hamas Fighters Refuse to Surrender in Rafah, Threatening Gaza Ceasefire

Gaza, November 9, 2025 – Tensions are rising in Gaza as Hamas’ armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, declared on Sunday that its fighters holed up in the Israeli-held Rafah area will not surrender to Israel. The group urged mediators to find a solution to the crisis, which threatens the month-old ceasefire.

According to sources close to mediation efforts, a proposal was on the table for Hamas fighters to surrender their arms in exchange for safe passage to other areas of Gaza. Egyptian mediators have reportedly suggested the fighters surrender their arms to Egypt and provide details of tunnels in Rafah for destruction.

However, the Al-Qassam Brigades vehemently rejected the idea of surrender. The group blamed Israel for engaging the fighters who they said were defending themselves.

The situation in Rafah has been volatile since the U.S.-brokered ceasefire took effect on October 10. At least two attacks on Israeli forces have occurred, resulting in three Israeli soldiers killed and subsequent Israeli retaliation that killed dozens of Palestinians.

U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff stated that the proposed deal for approximately 200 fighters would be a test for a broader process to disarm Hamas forces across Gaza.

In a separate development, Al-Qassam Brigades announced the handover of the body of deceased Israeli soldier Hadar Goldin on Sunday. Since the ceasefire, Hamas has handed over the bodies of 23 out of 28 deceased hostages.

Local health authorities reported an Israeli airstrike in Bani Suhaila east of Khan Younis, resulting in the death of one man. The Israeli military has yet to comment on the incident.

The conflict, sparked by Hamas’ October 7 attacks where 1,200 people were killed and 251 hostages seized, has led to a devastating Israeli offensive that has killed nearly 69,000 Palestinians, according to health officials in Gaza.

The future of the ceasefire hangs in the balance as mediators work to find a solution to the Rafah crisis and prevent further escalation of violence.

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