The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is on the verge of collapse after Israel blocked humanitarian aid to Gaza. This decision came in response to Hamas rejecting Israel’s proposal to extend the ceasefire without committing to a permanent end to the war or a full military withdrawal. Hamas condemned the move as “cheap blackmail” and a “war crime,” further escalating tensions in the region.
Despite previous exchanges of prisoners and hostages, 59 Israeli hostages remain in Gaza, with only 24 believed to be alive, according to Israeli authorities. The recent return of four bodies underscores the ongoing humanitarian and political crisis. The fate of these hostages remains uncertain as negotiations stall.
Global Outrage Over Israel’s Aid Halt and Ceasefire Extension Dispute
Israel’s decision to halt aid has been met with strong criticism from the United Nations, aid groups, and key mediators like Egypt. Egypt rejected what it called the “politicization” of humanitarian assistance, while Qatar denounced the use of food as a weapon. The UN expressed alarm over Israel’s move, emphasizing the need for unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza.
Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Nears Collapse as Humanitarian Aid Halt Sparks Global OutrageThe ceasefire agreement was structured in three phases. The first phase, which lasted 42 days, saw the release of 38 hostages in exchange for 1,737 Palestinian prisoners, as well as Israeli troop withdrawals from urban centers. However, the second phase, which was supposed to begin on Sunday and include further exchanges and troop withdrawals, has not yet materialized, with Hamas blaming Israel for failing to initiate talks.
Israel is pushing to extend the first phase of the ceasefire for another 42 days, continuing hostage exchanges and allowing aid to enter Gaza without committing to a permanent ceasefire. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that this proposal was put forward by US envoy Steve Witkoff. Israel halted aid after Hamas rejected this extension, warning of further consequences if the group did not comply.
Hamas Demands Ceasefire Completion While Global Pressures Intensify on Israel
Hamas has insisted on moving to the second phase of the ceasefire, which involves a permanent end to hostilities and a full Israeli withdrawal. The group accused Israel of attempting to manipulate the agreement by prolonging the first phase and avoiding discussions on a lasting resolution. Hamas urged mediators to pressure Israel into adhering to the original terms.
Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Nears Collapse as Humanitarian Aid Halt Sparks Global OutrageWhile Israel claims the US is backing its proposal, it remains unclear who initiated the plan. The White House stated that Israel had negotiated in good faith but blamed Hamas for the breakdown of talks. Meanwhile, Egypt, Qatar, and other international actors continue to push for an unconditional flow of aid to Gaza. The humanitarian situation worsens as diplomatic efforts stall.
With the ceasefire hanging by a thread, pressure mounts on both sides. Netanyahu faces demands from far-right ministers to resume military operations, while families of Israeli hostages urge the Trump administration to negotiate a comprehensive deal for their release. Meanwhile, humanitarian conditions in Gaza remain dire, with aid restrictions and ongoing Israeli strikes threatening further escalation.