By Geo Kerry
Israel has halted humanitarian aid into Gaza, citing Hamas’ diversion of supplies for military use.
This move comes as Hamas continues to reject a U.S.-backed ceasefire plan that would have freed hostages in two phases.
U.S. Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff has put forth a plan that would extend the ceasefire in Gaza another few weeks and free the rest of the hostages over time.
Israel has signed on, but not Hamas.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced, “In Witkoff’s plan, half of the hostages would be released right away and the remaining half would be released if we reach an agreement on a permanent ceasefire.
“Again, Israel has accepted this plan. I accepted this plan.
”But so far, Hamas has rejected it.
“As a result, Israel is cutting off all aid and goods going into Gaza.”
Israeli officials charge that during the ceasefire, more than 21,000 aid trucks entered the Gaza Strip – enough to last four to six months if Hamas distributes the supplies fairly.
However, with Hamas controlling the flow of resources, Israel claims it can no longer risk sustaining what it calls a “terror machine.”
