U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that the leadership of Hamas was not responsible for the recent death of two Israeli occupation soldiers in southern Gaza, attributing the incident instead to “rebels within” the movement.

Speaking aboard Air Force One on October 19, Trump stated: “Either way, it’s going to be handled properly. It’s going to be handled toughly, but properly.” He expressed optimism that the ceasefire agreement in Gaza would remain in effect, stressing that Washington’s goal was to maintain regional stability, adding, “It’s going to be very peaceful with Hamas.”

The Israeli occupation army confirmed on Sunday that two of its soldiers — identified as a Major and a Staff Sergeant — were killed during operations in the southern Gaza Strip. Another soldier from the Gaza Brigade’s combat engineering unit was severely wounded and transferred to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The incident occurred amid rising tensions and sporadic violations of the ceasefire in several parts of the besieged enclave, particularly in the south, where Israeli occupation forces continue their field operations.

In response, the al-Qassam Brigades — the armed wing of Hamas — issued a statement reaffirming their “full commitment” to the ceasefire agreement and denying any involvement in the recent events reported in Rafah.

“We affirm our complete commitment to implementing everything that has been agreed upon, foremost among them the ceasefire in all areas of the Gaza Strip,” the group said in its statement.

Observers note that Trump’s remarks mark a rare acknowledgment from a U.S. president that could be interpreted as distinguishing between Hamas’ political leadership and potential local actors operating independently — a position that may have implications for future mediation and ceasefire stabilization efforts in Gaza. (ILKHA)