Israel will halt the entry of essential aid into the Gaza Strip starting Sunday, according to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, following Hamas’ refusal to accept an outline for the resumption of truce talks presented by US President Donald Trump’s envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff. The decision comes after the first phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, which included increased humanitarian assistance, expired on Saturday. The proposed extension of the ceasefire, announced by Netanyahu’s office earlier on Sunday, is intended to last through the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and the Jewish Passover, aiming for more time to negotiate a permanent ceasefire. However, Hamas insists on the implementation of the second phase of the truce, which would pave the way for a permanent end to hostilities and the release of all hostages. Both sides disagree on the next steps, with Israel seeking the release of more hostages under an extended first phase, while Hamas pushes for phase two. Israel’s decision to halt aid, which Hamas describes as a “war crime,” is seen as a “further consequence” if Hamas continues to refuse the US proposal for a ceasefire extension. The original ceasefire agreement in January halted 15 months of fighting, allowing for the exchange of hostages and the release of prisoners. Ongoing talks on a permanent ceasefire have so far been unsuccessful.

Source: https://www.dw.com/en/israel-stops-aid-entries-into-gaza/a-71796213?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf