The U.S. State Department threatened action against Hamas on October 18th, 2025, at approximately 10:06 PM UTC, if the group continues to violate the Gaza ceasefire with attacks on Palestinian civilians. This statement comes amid reports of Hamas intending to violate the ceasefire, a move described by the State Department as a direct and serious breach of the agreement. During the reporting window of 10:06 PM to 11:06 PM UTC, the U.S. State Department reiterated its commitment, along with other Arab nations, to ensuring the safety of Gaza's residents and preserving the integrity of the ceasefire. The specific actions the U.S. might take were not detailed, but the statement emphasized a resolve to protect civilians. This development follows earlier reports from October 18th, 2025, where the IDF announced that coffins of "empty abductees" were en route to the National Center for Forensic Medicine for identification. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has consistently stated that the Gaza war will only conclude upon the return of all hostage bodies and the disarmament and demilitarization of Hamas, a condition also reportedly being emphasized by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates for their financial support of Gaza's reconstruction.
