Israel announced on Sunday that it is suspending the entry of humanitarian aid and supplies into Gaza. This move comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of “consequences” if Hamas does not agree to a proposed extension of the ongoing truce.
According to a statement from Netanyahu’s office, “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu decided that, from this morning, all entry of goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip will be suspended.”
The statement emphasized that Israel will not accept a ceasefire unless its hostages are released, adding, “If Hamas persists with its refusal, there will be other consequences.”
The truce, which has been in effect for 42 days, was initially aimed at de-escalating hostilities and allowing humanitarian assistance into Gaza. However, the latest suspension of aid signals a potential shift in Israel’s stance as negotiations over the next phase of the ceasefire stall.
READ ALSO: Football Set to Enforce Stricter Rule on Time-Wasting Goalkeepers with Finger-Counting System
The Israeli government disclosed that U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, had put forward a proposal to extend the ceasefire through Ramadan, with an end date around Passover in mid-April.
The terms of the proposed extension would include the release of half of the remaining hostages in Gaza immediately upon its enactment, with the rest to be freed at the end, provided an agreement is reached for a more permanent ceasefire.
Hamas, however, swiftly condemned Israel’s decision to suspend aid, calling it “cheap blackmail, a war crime, and a blatant coup against the ceasefire agreement.”
The Palestinian group has expressed support for transitioning into the second phase of the ceasefire, which would involve the release of all hostages and a more lasting cessation of hostilities.
READ ALSO: NAFDAC Blacklists Indian Firm Over Dangerous Opioid Distribution in West Africa
Following Netanyahu’s announcement, his spokesperson Omer Dostri confirmed on social media that “No trucks entered Gaza this morning, nor will they at this stage.” The move has received support from far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, whose political party plays a crucial role in sustaining Netanyahu’s government.
Smotrich welcomed the decision, stating, “Stopping aid until Hamas is destroyed or completely surrenders and all our hostages are freed is an important step in the right direction.”
He called for a renewed offensive “until total victory” over Hamas, emphasizing that his party remains in government to ensure such a course of action.
READ ALSO: ECOWAS Bank and European Investment Bank Launch €100 Million Climate Finance Initiative
Hamas has urged international mediators and the global community to exert pressure on Israel to reverse what it describes as “punitive, immoral measures” affecting over two million people in Gaza.
Before the ceasefire, the United Nations had repeatedly warned that the region was on the brink of famine, with thousands of civilians suffering due to the ongoing conflict. The truce had allowed for an influx of much-needed aid, but with supplies now halted, fears of a worsening humanitarian crisis are growing.
As negotiations continue, the future of the ceasefire remains uncertain. Whether diplomatic efforts can bridge the divide between Israel and Hamas will determine the fate of civilians caught in the crossfire, as well as the broader trajectory of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
AFP
Discover more from Scoop Hub
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.