Saudi Arabia strongly condemned Gaza’s aid blockade, calling it an act of blackmail and collective punishment. Israel decided to block the humanitarian aid going into Gaza, the Saudi Foreign Ministry labeled the move a violation of international humanitarian law and a direct attack on Palestinian civilians facing extreme hardships.
Jordan echoed these concerns, warning that Israel’s blockade could escalate tensions and worsen the humanitarian crisis in the region. International organizations expressed grave concerns over the situation, emphasizing the catastrophic consequences of restricting humanitarian assistance.
The International Committee of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies warned that people remain on a knife edge without aid access. Angelita Caredda, the Norwegian Refugee Council’s regional director, urged Israel to reverse its decision immediately and allow aid to resume without further delays.
Meanwhile, ceasefire negotiations faced a new setback as Hamas rejected a revised truce proposal backed by Israel and the United States. The plan called for an extended ceasefire through Ramadan and Passover, contingent on Hamas releasing half of its captives on the first day.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the remaining hostages would be freed once both sides reached a permanent ceasefire. Hamas dismissed the offer, insisting that Israel must withdraw forces permanently from Gaza before prisoner exchanges occur. Meanwhile Israel is using food and water as political leverage.
80% of Gaza’s reservoirs and facilities have been destroyed, forcing complete reliance on trucked-in water supplies. Medical facilities are also struggling, with hospitals running out of essential medicines and supplies due to Gaza’s aid blockade.
The ceasefire agreement in January had initially halted the conflict, which killed over 48,380 people and devastated Gaza’s infrastructure. As international pressure mounts, Gaza’s aid blockade remains a critical issue, exacerbating humanitarian suffering and complicating ceasefire negotiations between both sides
