Israel halts Gaza aid as ceasefire terms unravel
Israel has suspended the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza following the conclusion of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement, citing disputes over terms with Hamas.
In a statement released by the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, it was announced that “as of this morning, entry of all goods and supplies to the Gaza Strip be halted.” The decision was attributed to Hamas' refusal to extend the initial phase of the agreement, a move Israel claims was not part of the original terms.
The first phase of the ceasefire, which began on January 19 and lasted six weeks, officially ended at midnight on Saturday. During this period, limited exchanges between the two sides took place. However, as the phase concluded, Israel pushed for an extension to secure the release of additional Israeli hostages. Hamas, on the other hand, has insisted that Israel adhere to the original timeline and move forward with the next stage of negotiations.
The second phase, according to the agreement, was expected to include discussions on a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a permanent cessation of hostilities. However, Netanyahu’s government has refused to proceed, arguing that Hamas' actions have jeopardized the process.
Tensions escalated further as Israel warned of “additional consequences” if Hamas continues to reject its demands. Meanwhile, Hamas has called for Israel to honor the agreed-upon terms and initiate talks for a broader, long-term resolution.
The suspension of aid has raised concerns about the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, as the enclave remains heavily reliant on external assistance for essential supplies. This latest development underscores the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the deep divisions between the two parties, leaving the future of peace negotiations uncertain.
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