JERUSALEM/CAIRO – Israel has halted humanitarian aid into Gaza, escalating tensions over a stalled ceasefire deal, as Hamas urges Egyptian and Qatari mediators to intervene.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed his government accepted a US-brokered proposal for a temporary ceasefire covering Ramadan and Passover, contingent on Hamas releasing half of the remaining hostages immediately.
Hamas Rejects Temporary Extension
Hamas, however, insists on progressing to phase two of the original 42-day ceasefire, which includes Israeli troop withdrawal and full hostage negotiations. In response, Netanyahu’s office announced a total blockade of aid and supplies into Gaza, warning of “additional consequences” if Hamas refuses to comply.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high, with reports of Israeli gunfire killing four Palestinians in northern and southern Gaza. Israeli officials are expected to hold further negotiations in Cairo to defuse the situation.