Israel halts humanitarian aid entry into Gaza, demanding Hamas agree to a U.S.-backed truce extension.
March 2, 2025
Israel has suspended the entry of all humanitarian aid into Gaza, demanding that Hamas agree to a U.S.-backed extension of the ceasefire deal before assistance resumes. The move follows the expiration of Phase One of the truce agreement, which had allowed for temporary relief efforts in the war-torn region.
Ceasefire Agreement in Deadlock
The ceasefire deal, brokered with international mediation, aimed to pause hostilities, facilitate hostage exchanges, and allow humanitarian aid to reach Gaza’s 2.3 million residents. However, with no agreement reached on an extension, Israel has decided to block further aid shipments, increasing concerns about worsening conditions in the enclave.
Israeli officials stated that Hamas must accept the terms of an extended ceasefire before humanitarian convoys can resume. Meanwhile, humanitarian organizations and the United Nations have raised alarms over the deepening crisis in Gaza, where food, medical supplies, and fuel are already in critical shortage.
International Reactions and Pressure
The U.S. and other international mediators are urging both sides to return to negotiations to prevent a humanitarian disaster. The blockade has also led to rising tensions in diplomatic circles, with calls for Israel to allow aid regardless of Hamas' stance.
On the ground, reports indicate that hospitals in Gaza are struggling to function, and displaced families face extreme hardships due to lack of food, clean water, and medical care. Aid agencies warn that any prolonged delay in assistance could result in severe consequences for civilians.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the focus remains on whether Hamas will agree to the proposed ceasefire extension and if Israel will reconsider its stance on blocking humanitarian aid in the interim.
