Israel Halts ALL Aid to Gaza After Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Deal: Hostages Still Held!

2025-03-02 18:25:04.958

Israel announced on Sunday that it has halted all humanitarian aid to Gaza after Hamas rejected a US-brokered proposal to extend the current ceasefire. The proposal, backed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, involved a temporary extension during Ramadan and Passover, with the release of half of the hostages held in Gaza upon the deal's commencement. Hamas swiftly denounced the plan, accusing Netanyahu of a "blatant coup" against the existing agreement. Following Hamas's rejection, Israel immediately stopped all entry of goods and supplies into Gaza, citing Hamas's refusal to cooperate. The Israeli government warned of further consequences if Hamas continues to refuse the proposal, emphasizing that a ceasefire is contingent upon the release of all remaining hostages. Hamas condemned Israel's action as "cheap blackmail" and a "war crime." Egypt, a mediator in the conflict, also denounced Israel's decision. The first phase of the ceasefire, which saw the release of dozens of Israeli hostages and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, expired on Saturday. Israel seeks to continue this exchange, while Hamas demands negotiations for a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. Aid agencies have strongly criticized Israel's decision, warning of a potential humanitarian crisis. Prices for basic goods in Gaza have already begun to rise sharply following the announcement, and four people were killed in Israeli military operations on Sunday. A propaganda video released by Hamas showing Israeli hostages added further strain to the situation. The video prompted condemnation from Israel, who called it "psychological warfare". The original ceasefire agreement stipulated that talks must be ongoing for the truce to continue. An Israeli delegation abruptly left Cairo on Friday, after attempting to prolong the first phase of the agreement. A total of 33 Israeli hostages, including two held for a decade, and 1,737 Palestinian prisoners were released during the first phase, along with 8 bodies. The situation remains highly volatile, with the future of the ceasefire uncertain.