Israel Halts Gaza Aid: Hostage Crisis Brings Humanitarian Catastrophe!

2025-03-02 18:25:35.283

Israel announced the immediate halt of all humanitarian aid to Gaza after Hamas refused a US-brokered ceasefire extension. The deal, proposed by US envoy Steve Witkoff, involved a temporary extension during Ramadan and Passover, with the release of half the hostages held in Gaza. Hamas rejected the plan, accusing Israel of a 'coup' against the existing agreement. Israel responded by halting all aid, threatening further consequences if Hamas continues to refuse. Hamas called the move 'blackmail' and a 'war crime'. Egypt condemned Israel's actions, rejecting the politicization of humanitarian aid. The initial ceasefire, which saw the release of dozens of Israeli hostages and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, expired on Saturday. Israel wants to extend the exchange of hostages for the continued release of Palestinian prisoners and increased aid to Gaza, while Hamas seeks negotiations on a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Aid agencies, including the International Red Cross and Medecins Sans Frontieres, denounced the Israeli decision, warning of dire consequences for the already vulnerable population. Prices for basic goods are already rising in Gaza, and diesel fuel has disappeared. Four people were killed by Israeli military operations in Gaza on Sunday. A propaganda video released by Hamas showing Israeli hostages added to the tensions. The video featured Iair Horn, a recently freed hostage, bidding farewell to his brother Eitan, who remains captive. Israel condemned the video as 'psychological warfare'. The original ceasefire, which began in January, saw the release of 33 Israeli hostages, 8 bodies, and 1737 Palestinian prisoners. The situation remains extremely tense, with the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsening.