From the Liveblog of
Sunday, March 2, 2025
Israel says it’s stopping entry of aid into Gaza over Hamas’s refusal to extend phase 1 of ceasefire
Lazar Berman is The Times of Israel's diplomatic reporter
Israel is not allowing any more goods to enter Gaza, says the Prime Minister’s Office, citing Hamas’s refusal to accept what it says is an American proposal to extend phase one of the ceasefire through Passover and Ramadan alongside more hostage releases.
“With the end of Phase 1 of the hostage deal,” says the PMO, “and in light of Hamas’s refusal to accept the [US special envoy Steve] Witkoff outline for continuing talks – to which Israel agreed – Prime Minister Netanyahu has decided that, as of this morning, all entry of goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip will cease.”
“Israel will not allow a ceasefire without the release of our hostages,” Netanyahu’s office continues, threatening “further consequences” if Hamas continues to say no to the proposal.
According to the Kan public broadcaster, Israel believes enough aid has entered the enclave in recent weeks to last Gaza for several months.
Israel announced last night it was adopting the “Witkoff” plan, when it was revealed for the first time by the PMO.
According to Israel’s account of Witkoff’s proposal, half of the remaining hostages — living and dead — would be released on the first day of the extended ceasefire, and the remaining captives would be released at the end of the period if a permanent ceasefire is reached.
Terror groups in the Gaza Strip are holding 59 hostages, including the bodies of at least 35 confirmed dead by the Israel Defense Forces.
