Israel announced on Sunday the suspension of all supply shipments into Gaza, warning Hamas of serious repercussions if it refuses to accept a proposed extension of the ceasefire in the region.
“From this morning, the entry of goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip will be completely halted,” stated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office. The statement further stressed that Israel would not agree to a ceasefire without the release of hostages and cautioned that Hamas’ refusal could lead to additional actions.
Hamas denounced the move, labeling it a “war crime” and a violation of the existing ceasefire agreement. The Palestinian group has consistently advocated for progressing to the next phase of the truce, which would include the release of all remaining hostages and a long-term cessation of hostilities.
According to Israeli officials, the proposed ceasefire extension—reportedly presented by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff—would last from Ramadan until mid-April’s Passover. Under this plan, half of the hostages in Gaza would be released immediately, with the remainder freed upon reaching a permanent ceasefire agreement.
Following Netanyahu’s announcement, his spokesperson Omer Dostri confirmed that no trucks carrying supplies had entered Gaza that morning and that none would be permitted for the time being.
Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a key figure in Netanyahu’s coalition, supported the aid suspension, stating that stopping humanitarian shipments was “a necessary step” to pressure Hamas into surrender. He reiterated calls for a continued military offensive until Hamas’ total defeat.
In response, Hamas urged international mediators and the global community to pressure Israel into reversing its decision, condemning the move as a collective punishment targeting over two million civilians in Gaza.
The ongoing conflict, which has lasted for more than 15 months, has created a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The United Nations had previously warned of an impending famine in the territory, but the ceasefire had facilitated an increase in aid deliveries. With the latest Israeli decision, concerns are rising over renewed hardships for Gaza’s residents.
