Israel Cuts Off Gaza Aid, Accused of 'Starvation as a Weapon'

2025-03-02 18:26:42.897

Israel stopped all goods and supplies from entering the Gaza Strip, issuing a warning of further consequences if Hamas doesn't accept a new ceasefire proposal. Egypt condemned Israel's actions, accusing them of using "starvation as a weapon." Hamas called the aid cutoff "cheap extortion" and a war crime, while both sides avoided declaring the ceasefire officially over. The first phase of the ceasefire, which included increased humanitarian aid, ended on Saturday, but negotiations for a second phase, involving hostage releases and Israeli withdrawal, stalled. Israel's new proposal, reportedly from the US, involves extending the ceasefire through Ramadan and Passover, with Hamas releasing hostages in stages. Hamas warned of consequences for the hostages if the agreement isn't fully implemented. The first phase was marked by disputes, including Israeli strikes on Palestinians and controversial treatment of released hostages. Israel has faced accusations of using starvation as a method of warfare, accusations it denies. The conflict began in October 2023 when Hamas militants attacked Israel, resulting in significant casualties on both sides and widespread destruction in Gaza.