Israel has intensified its demands on Hamas to agree to a ceasefire extension, blocking humanitarian aid from entering Gaza and heightening tensions in the region. The situation has grown increasingly dire following an unprecedented attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities and 251 hostages taken. Now, only 24 hostages are believed to be alive, while another 39 are presumed dead. The first phase of a truce deal mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States expired on Saturday.
The ceasefire agreement, initially proposed by U.S. President Joe Biden, sought to halt 15 months of hostilities between Hamas and the Israeli military. It facilitated the release of 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for around 1,900 Palestinian prisoners and detainees. However, with the expiration of phase one of the deal, Israel has threatened to resume its military campaign if negotiations falter.
Israel's decision to block aid has drawn criticism from various quarters. A spokesman for Hamas decried the move as "cheap blackmail" and a "coup" on the ceasefire agreement. Aid agencies have temporarily stored supplies, averting immediate danger to civilians due to Israel's morning decision. Nevertheless, concerns remain as Antoine Renard from the World Food Programme emphasized:
"Humanitarian assistance has to continue to flow into Gaza. It's very essential. And we are calling all parties to make sure that they reach a solution."
The Israeli military has maintained its operations in Gaza, conducting an air and ground campaign that the territory's Hamas-run health ministry claims has resulted in over 48,365 casualties. During the truce period since mid-January, thousands of trucks have transported aid into Gaza weekly. Nonetheless, the current blockade threatens this critical supply line.
Egypt has urged all parties to implement the previously agreed ceasefire deal fully. The Egyptian Foreign Minister announced plans to present a proposal for reconstructing Gaza without displacing its people at an emergency Arab summit on Tuesday. The third phase of the ceasefire plan is expected to focus on returning the bodies of all deceased hostages and rebuilding Gaza, a process anticipated to span several years.
Israel's recent military actions include an attack on individuals allegedly planting an explosive device in northern Gaza. As negotiations continue, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that averts further violence.
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