SAFA -  Hamas political bureau member Bassem Naim blamed the “Gaza Peace Council” for the ongoing Israeli killing of Palestinians in Gaza. 

His remarks followed an Israeli strike on a cafe in Gaza City that killed seven Palestinians, including a child, and injured ten others, three of whom were in critical condition.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Naim called the attack a betrayal of civilians and pointed out that, based on the false claims made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, some statements made by council members could be seen as giving Israeli occupation permission to carry out its attacks.

Naim stressed that Palestinians should not bear responsibility for Netanyahu’s political fortunes or electoral success, calling on the council to compel the Israeli government to implement the ceasefire agreement and abide by its provisions.

He said the continuation of Israeli attacks while ceasefire arrangements and de-escalation efforts are being discussed undermines attempts to halt the fighting.

Naim urged all relevant parties to assume their responsibilities, work to ensure implementation of the ceasefire agreement, and take measures to protect Palestinian civilians.