What to Know About Israel’s Decision to Halt Aid to Gaza

Israel announced on Sunday that it would halt all goods and humanitarian aid from entering Gaza, disrupting the existing framework for negotiating a permanent end to the war.

This decision came after the first phase of a cease-fire deal between Israel and Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel made the announcement to stop the flow of humanitarian assistance and goods in an attempt to pressure Hamas into accepting Israel’s cease-fire proposal.

Hamas had led attacks on Israel in 2023, resulting in casualties and hostages. The initial cease-fire deal involved the release of hostages and prisoners, as well as an increase in aid to Gaza.

Israel attributed the extension proposal to the new U.S. envoy to the region, Steve Witkoff. This proposal would replace the original deal negotiated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, which called for a withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and a permanent cease-fire.

Hamas responded to Israel’s decision by calling it “cheap blackmail” and expressed willingness to continue negotiations for the second stage of the deal.

The halt in aid is expected to cause hardship for Palestinian civilians, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. Prices of essential goods have already spiked in Gaza City.

During the war, Israeli actions have caused significant damage in Gaza, resulting in casualties and a decrease in aid to the region. The decrease in aid has led to malnutrition and warnings of a famine.

The fate of remaining hostages in Gaza is now uncertain following Israel’s decision to halt aid.