Arab world, aid groups slam Israel's block on Gaza aid – DW – 03/02/2025


Arab world, aid groups slam Israel

Published 2 March 2025 Israel stopped the entry of essential aid into the Gaza Strip on Sunday, following a decision by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, drawing a strong rebuke from the United Nations, regional powers Egypt and Saudi Arabia, and humanitarian organizations. The move is in response to what Netanyahu's office called "Hamas' refusal" to accept an outline for the resumption of truce talks presented by US President Donald Trump's envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff. The first phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, which included a surge in humanitarian assistance, expired on Saturday. The two sides disagree about the next steps in the truce. Israel wants more hostages to be released under an extension of the first phase. But Hamas is pushing for the start of the second phase that would pave the way for a permanent end to the war.