Israel has announced a halt to all humanitarian aid entering Gaza as a means to pressure Hamas into accepting a temporary extension of the ceasefire agreement. The move comes after the initial phase of the truce expired, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealing that the proposed extension was suggested by President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy.
The extension, intended to span the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and the Jewish holiday of Passover, has not received confirmation from the Trump administration. Israel claims that the decision to suspend aid was made in agreement with Washington.
However, Hamas has rejected the proposal, labeling it as a 'blatant coup against the ceasefire deal.' The group insists on negotiations for a permanent end to the conflict, including the full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.
Despite international criticism and appeals from aid groups, Israel remains firm on its stance, warning of further consequences if Hamas continues to resist the proposed extension. The ceasefire agreement, which saw the release of hostages and prisoners, is now at a critical juncture as both sides navigate the complexities of the truce.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with the enclave heavily reliant on humanitarian aid. The decision to halt aid shipments has sparked concerns among aid agencies, who emphasize the urgent need for continued support to alleviate the suffering of Gaza's residents.
As tensions escalate and casualties mount, the fate of the ceasefire hangs in the balance. Both Israel and Hamas face mounting pressure to find a resolution that addresses the underlying issues fueling the conflict and ensures the well-being of the people in the region.
