The Israeli government halted the entry of humanitarian aid into the war-ravaged Gaza Strip on Sunday, just hours after the first phase of a ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal expired. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated that the decision came in response to Hamas' refusal to extend the first phase of the ceasefire agreement. "As of this morning, entry of all goods and supplies to the Gaza Strip will be halted," the statement read, warning of "additional consequences" if Hamas does not comply. Israeli Channel 14 reported that the decision was coordinated with the U.S., highlighting Washington's involvement in the ongoing ceasefire negotiations. Far-right Israeli politician and former national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir praised the move, calling for an escalation. "This policy should remain in place until the last hostage returns. Now is the time to open the gates of hell, cut electricity and water, and resume the war," he said. The six-week ceasefire phase, which began on Jan. 19, officially ended at midnight on Saturday. However, Israel has not committed to advancing to the second phase of the deal, which was intended to bring an end to the war in Gaza. Netanyahu had sought to extend the prisoner exchange without making concessions or fulfilling military and humanitarian obligations outlined in the agreement. Hamas, however, has refused to proceed without Israel adhering to the agreed terms, which include a full withdrawal from Gaza and a permanent halt to hostilities. Earlier on Sunday, Israel announced its agreement to a temporary ceasefire during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and the Jewish holiday of Passover. The move followed a proposal by U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. The war in Gaza has resulted in over 48,380 Palestinian deaths, mostly women and children, and widespread devastation across the enclave. In November, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over its actions in the enclave. — Agencies
