Israel has expressed its willingness to establish a permanent ceasefire in the besieged Gaza Strip. On Tuesday, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar announced this during a briefing with international media in Jerusalem. However, he emphasized that Israel’s conditions for the ceasefire include the release of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas and the complete disarmament of Gaza.
The first phase of the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel ended last Sunday. Following this, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a halt to all humanitarian aid and goods entering Gaza, raising concerns about potential food shortages for Gaza’s residents.
Minister Sa’ar justified the blockade, claiming that Hamas generates income through these goods, with humanitarian aid being its primary source of revenue. He argued that stopping supplies to Gaza is a measure to cut off Hamas’ financial resources, although international law considers blocking essential goods to war-torn regions as a potential war crime.
He stated, “Humanitarian aid has become the number one source of income for Hamas. They are using this revenue to rebuild their military capabilities and recruit young people.”
The end of the first phase of the ceasefire and the subsequent halt in aid deliveries have left Gaza’s residents fearful of renewed Israeli military operations.