Israel suspended deliveries of humanitarian aid to Gaza and closed all of its crossings on Sunday amid Hamas’s refusal to accept a US outline for continued ceasefire talks Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced on Sunday morning.
“With the end of Phase 1 of the hostage deal,” Netanyahu’s office said, “and in light of Hamas’s refusal to accept the [US special envoy Steve] Witkoff outline for continuing talks – to which Israel agreed – Prime Minister Netanyahu has decided that, as of this morning, all entry of goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip will cease.”
The announcement added “Israel will not allow a ceasefire without the release of our hostages. If Hamas continues its refusal, there will be further consequences.” In all likelihood the stockpiles of Hamas will last them (if not their civilian population) for several months during which time they will be regrouping and rearming. Therefore, it may become necessary to remove civilians from areas controlled by Hamas and allow aid to those places. Meanwhile, Israel is readying itself for an all-out conquest and victory in Gaza.
“While Hamas has repeatedly violated the agreement, Israel is not in violation. According to the agreement, Israel can return to fighting after the 42nd day if it feels that the negotiations are ineffective. This clause was supported by a side letter from the previous US administration and also received the support of the Trump administration,” There is a high probability that this will be the only way to get to a demilitarized Gaza, free of Hamas.