Israel Cuts Off Aid to Gaza: What It Means for Civilians

Jerusalem: Israel has blocked the entry of food, fuel, and other goods into Gaza, echoing its siege measures from the early days of the ongoing war. This decision has drawn sharp criticism from humanitarian organizations and global leaders, who view it as a violation of international law.

The blockade aims to pressure Hamas into extending the ceasefire’s first phase. Israel insists that Hamas must negotiate the release of all hostages before moving to the next phase, which would involve discussions on a long-term ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

International Backlash and Accusations

Global entities have strongly condemned Israel’s decision:

• Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry: Called it “a tool of extortion.”
• Oxfam: Labeled it “a reckless act of collective punishment.”
• Egypt: Accused Israel of “using starvation as a weapon.”

The United Nations and aid groups warn that cutting off supplies will exacerbate hunger, which has plagued Gaza’s 2 million residents throughout the conflict. Aid experts had previously cautioned about potential famine, and progress achieved under the last six weeks of ceasefire is now at risk.

Ceasefire Collapse and Stalled Negotiations

The ceasefire’s first phase ended early Sunday. Minutes later, Israel announced support for a U.S.-backed proposal to extend it until mid-April, coinciding with the Jewish holiday of Passover. However, Israel also warned that if negotiations did not progress effectively, it would resume military operations.

Hamas has insisted that discussions on the second phase of the ceasefire should have started a month ago, increasing uncertainty around the fragile truce. Following the breakdown in negotiations, Israel immediately announced the aid cutoff.

Humanitarian Impact and Economic Fallout

During the ceasefire’s first phase, approximately 600 aid trucks entered Gaza daily. These supplies included food, fuel, and essential medical aid. However, Hamas claims that only half of the agreed-upon fuel shipments were delivered and that Israel restricted the entry of livestock and animal feed, worsening food security.

With the new blockade, Palestinians rushed to markets, causing food prices to triple overnight.

“The ceasefire brought much-needed relief to Gaza, but it was far from enough to cover the immense needs,” said the Norwegian Refugee Council.

Legal and Political Repercussions

Legal experts and humanitarian groups argue that Israel’s decision violates international law:

• United Nations Humanitarian Chief Tom Fletcher: Stated that Israel must allow access to vital aid under international humanitarian law.
• International Criminal Court (ICC): Previously accused Israel of “using starvation as a method of warfare.”
• South Africa’s Case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ): Claims Israel’s actions amount to genocide.

Several non-governmental organizations have filed a petition with Israel’s Supreme Court, demanding an interim order to prevent the aid blockade.

Kenneth Roth, former head of Human Rights Watch, criticized Israel’s move, stating, “As an occupying power, Israel has an absolute duty to facilitate humanitarian aid under the Geneva Conventions.”

What Happens Next?

The situation remains volatile, with ongoing diplomatic efforts to restore negotiations. The U.S. has yet to officially comment on Israel’s aid cutoff, and the timeline for resuming humanitarian deliveries remains uncertain.

As the crisis deepens, international pressure is mounting on Israel to reverse its decision and allow critical supplies into Gaza.