Israel Halts Aid to Gaza as Ceasefire Stalls, Raising Fears of Renewed Conflict

Israel has announced a suspension of all aid and supply entry into Gaza, marking a sharp escalation in tensions as the first phase of the ceasefire agreement with Hamas comes to an uncertain end. The decision, made by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, follows an impasse between the two sides over how to move forward with the truce. While Israel supported an extension proposed by U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff to cover both Ramadan and Passover, Hamas rejected the idea, insisting on transitioning directly to the second phase of the agreement—one that would see the release of all remaining hostages and a more lasting ceasefire.

The move to cut off aid has drawn sharp criticism, with Hamas condemning it as “cheap blackmail” and a “war crime.” Gaza’s already dire humanitarian situation, exacerbated by months of conflict, is now at further risk, with reports of new Israeli airstrikes and clashes in the region. The Palestinian Red Crescent confirmed deaths from drone strikes, while Gaza’s health ministry reported multiple casualties from Israeli attacks.

Netanyahu's government, under pressure from far-right coalition members, appears to be using the aid suspension as leverage. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a key figure in keeping Netanyahu’s fragile coalition intact, welcomed the decision, calling it “an important step in the right direction” and pushing for a continued offensive until Hamas is decisively defeated.

Meanwhile, families of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza have accused Netanyahu of deliberately stalling negotiations. At a Tel Aviv protest, supporters demanded the government take decisive action to bring their loved ones home. Under the first phase of the deal, Hamas had released 25 hostages and the remains of eight others in exchange for around 1,800 Palestinian prisoners. However, 58 captives remain in Gaza, including 34 whom the Israeli military has declared dead.

The timing of Israel’s decision is particularly sensitive, as it coincides with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, a period of fasting and reflection for millions, including those suffering in war-ravaged Gaza. Many Palestinians gathered amid the rubble to break their fast, vowing to remain on their land despite the destruction. The war has left most of Gaza in ruins, displaced nearly its entire population, and caused over 48,000 deaths, according to the local health ministry.

As the humanitarian crisis deepens, Washington has stepped in to reaffirm its commitment to Israel. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio invoked emergency authorities to expedite $4 billion in military aid, signaling continued American support amid the ongoing conflict. With negotiations stalled and aid blocked, the situation remains fragile, with both sides bracing for what comes next.