Israel Halts Humanitarian Aid to Gaza, Citing Alleged Hamas Theft
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced the suspension of all humanitarian aid to Gaza, alleging that Hamas is seizing the supplies and preventing them from reaching civilians.
“We are halting all aid deliveries to Gaza because Hamas is intercepting the supplies and depriving the people of their rightful assistance,” Netanyahu stated. He claimed the militant group was obstructing relief efforts, making it impossible for aid to be distributed fairly.
Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, reinforced this stance, asserting, “Palestinians in Gaza will not receive goods for free,” and linking any future aid deliveries to the release of hostages held by Hamas.
The decision to block humanitarian assistance comes as Israel seeks to increase pressure on Hamas following the expiration of the initial phase of a ceasefire agreement. Despite ongoing negotiations for a second phase, progress has stalled, prompting Israel to escalate measures.
The Israeli government warned of further repercussions if Hamas fails to comply with ceasefire demands. “Israel will not agree to a truce unless our hostages are released,” Netanyahu’s office declared.
In response, Hamas condemned the move, calling it “an act of blackmail, a war crime, and a violation of the ceasefire agreement.” The group insists that Israel must adhere to the original terms, which included discussions on a lasting ceasefire and a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
The ceasefire
