Israel's Stance on Gaza Aid Suspension Hinges on Hamas Agreement Before Ramadan

Israel has linked the resumption of humanitarian aid to Gaza to Hamas accepting the "Witkoff plan," brokered by the U.S. envoy to the Middle East. This plan proposes extending the initial phase of the Gaza truce for approximately 50 days, encompassing Ramadan, which began on March 1st, and Passover. During this period, Hamas is expected to release the remaining living hostages and return the bodies of deceased hostages. The suspension of aid has drawn strong condemnation from Arab nations and the UN, which emphasizes the necessity of humanitarian access. Conversely, the U.S. has voiced support for Israel, asserting its good-faith negotiations for hostage release. Israel's Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa'ar, contends that sufficient supplies for four months entered Gaza during the six-week truce, countering Hamas's claims of starvation.