Israel is accused of violating humanitarian law by stopping aid to Gaza, drawing sharp criticism from Egypt and Qatar. Hamas claims this move undermines the ceasefire and constitutes starvation tactics. Amid stalled negotiations for the next phase of the ceasefire, international bodies have called for immediate restoration of humanitarian aid and the release of hostages.
Recent accusations from Egypt and Qatar have charged Israel with violating humanitarian law by ceasing aid to Gaza amid an ongoing ceasefire. Israel’s stoppage of food and supplies has drawn sharp condemnation, with Hamas alleging that this move is an attempt to undermine the ceasefire process. As mediators, Egypt and Qatar argue that Israel’s actions constitute the use of starvation as a weapon against the Gazan population, criticizing this tactic as a breach of humanitarian principles.
The first phase of the ceasefire had initially allowed for a significant increase in humanitarian aid, following a period of growing hunger in Gaza. However, as the phase ended, Hamas claimed Israel’s decision to halt aid represents a devastating blow to the truce negotiated over the past year. Ongoing discussions regarding the second phase of the ceasefire, which could involve the release of hostages by Hamas in exchange for an Israeli withdrawal, have yet to commence despite initial plans for negotiations a month ago.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that a new proposal from the United States seeks to extend the ceasefire through Ramadan and Passover, contingent upon Hamas’s release of hostages. Currently, 59 hostages are held by Hamas, with some believed to be deceased. The Israeli government maintains that negotiations can only progress as long as Hamas continues to free hostages, tying the success of the ceasefire to these releases.
International bodies, including the International Committee of the Red Cross and the United Nations, have expressed deep concern over the humanitarian implications of halting aid. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for immediate resumption of humanitarian assistance in Gaza and for all hostages to be released. Human rights organizations have also pressed Israel’s Supreme Court to ensure the consistent flow of aid, claiming any blockade violates international law.
The ongoing conflict has left a significant portion of Gaza’s population reliant on international aid, with daily deliveries drastically reduced since Israel’s aid stoppage. Local residents have reported skyrocketing prices and the worsening of living conditions, raising fears of famine. Families of hostages have urged Israeli authorities to expedite negotiations, asserting that the urgency of the situation leaves no room for delays.
Israel’s critics have highlighted the blockade during the conflict as a potential war crime, citing the International Criminal Court’s previous arrest warrant for Prime Minister Netanyahu on similar grounds. Israel has refuted allegations of starvation tactics, arguing that it has provided sufficient aid while blaming shortages on Hamas’s diversion of resources. The ongoing military offensive has resulted in high casualties in Gaza, raising serious concerns over the humanitarian crisis in the region.
In summary, the recent allegations by Egypt and Qatar assert that Israel’s blockade of aid to Gaza violates humanitarian laws, drawing criticism from multiple international authorities. The ceasefire’s continuation is contingent on hostage negotiations, with serious humanitarian implications for the residents of Gaza as aid access dwindles. As the conflict continues, the call for immediate resumption of aid and hostage releases remains urgent, underscoring the necessity for diplomatic solutions.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
