Israel accused of violating humanitarian law for halting Gaza aid
What's the story
Israel is facing intense criticism from Egypt and Qatar for halting the flow of food and other supplies into Gaza.
The two countries accused Israel of violating humanitarian law by using starvation as a weapon.
The decision comes after the first phase of a fragile ceasefire ended, which had previously permitted an uptick in humanitarian aid after months of worsening hunger in Gaza.
Rising concerns
Ceasefire's end sparks fears of famine and chaos
The ceasefire, which began on January 19, had allowed about 600 aid trucks to enter Gaza every day.
However, Israel's recent move to stop aid has once again raised fears of famine and chaos in the region.
Jabaliya refugee camp resident Fayza Nassar expressed fears that conditions would worsen due to this closure.
"There will be famine and chaos," she said.
Accusations fly
Hamas accuses Israel of derailing ceasefire agreement
Hamas has accused Israel of attempting to derail the next phase of the ceasefire agreement, calling Israel's actions "cheap extortion, a war crime, and a blatant attack" on the truce.
The second phase was meant to see Hamas releasing hostages in exchange for an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a lasting ceasefire.
However, negotiations for Phase 2 were set to begin in early February but have been delayed.
Ceasefire terms
Netanyahu conditions ceasefire continuation on hostage release
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said the ceasefire would only continue if Hamas released hostages.
He spoke of a new US-backed proposal—conveyed via Steve Witkoff—that extends the ceasefire through Ramadan and the Jewish Passover.
Hamas would have to initially release half of its hostages under the proposal, with the rest being released upon reaching a permanent ceasefire agreement.
Global response
International community reacts to Israel's aid blockade
The International Committee of the Red Cross has warned that any reversal of progress could push people back into despair.
UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher described Israel's decision as "alarming," noting that international law requires aid access.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on all parties to prevent renewed hostilities and urged for an immediate resumption of aid flow into Gaza.
Denial and blame
Israel denies accusations, blames UN and Hamas for aid shortages
Israel has denied accusations of blocking aid, instead blaming shortages on UN distribution failures. It also accused Hamas of diverting aid supplies.
The International Criminal Court had previously issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu over allegations of using starvation as warfare.
Meanwhile, five non-governmental groups have petitioned Israel's Supreme Court to prevent further aid blockades, citing violations of international law.