The Israeli government has taken a bold stance by blocking the entry of all humanitarian aid into Gaza following the expiration of the first phase of the ceasefire with Hamas. This move comes after Hamas refused to accept a temporary ceasefire extension proposed by US President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff.
In response to Hamas’ rejection of the ceasefire extension, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced that all entry of goods and supplies into Gaza would cease. The decision was made in light of Hamas’ refusal to accept the Witkoff outline for continuing talks, which Israel had agreed to.
Hamas, on the other hand, called the move “cheap blackmail” and a “coup” on the ceasefire agreement. The Palestinian group is adamant about moving forward with phase two of the deal as originally negotiated, which includes the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners, as well as the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Late last night, Netanyahu’s office revealed that Israel had agreed to a US proposal for the ceasefire to continue for about six weeks during the Muslim Ramadan and Jewish Passover periods. If negotiations reach a dead end at the end of this period, Israel reserves the right to go back to war.
The first phase of the ceasefire, which began on January 19, brought an end to 15 months of fighting between Hamas and the Israeli military. It resulted in the release of 33 Israeli and five Thai hostages in exchange for about 1,900 Palestinian prisoners and detainees. However, negotiations for phase two, including the release of all remaining hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, have hit a roadblock.
There are approximately 24 hostages alive, with 39 others presumed to be dead. The conflict escalated in October 2023 when Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, resulting in the death of about 1,200 people and the capture of 251 hostages. In response, Israel initiated an air and ground campaign in the Gaza Strip, leading to the death of at least 48,365 people according to the territory’s Hamas-run health ministry.
The situation remains tense as both sides stand firm on their demands. The international community is urged to intervene and pressure the Israeli government to resume the supply of aid to Gaza. The future of the ceasefire hangs in the balance as negotiations continue.
