Recent statements from various parties involved in the Gaza conflict highlight deep divisions regarding humanitarian aid distribution and the prospects for a lasting peace. Haviv Rettig Gur, a prominent commentator, asserted on social media that Hamas "doesn't want the war to end" and actively disrupts aid channels, claiming the group "negotiates only for itself." This perspective underscores a central point of contention in the ongoing crisis.
Reports from the ground indicate a severe humanitarian situation, with the UN and aid agencies warning of mass starvation in Gaza. The Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health has reported deaths due to malnutrition, with over 70 children dying from the condition since the beginning of the year. The UN's human rights office has also recorded hundreds of killings near aid sites and food convoys, raising concerns about the safety of civilians seeking assistance.
Accusations regarding aid disruption are multifaceted. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) claim Hamas systematically exploits and divers and diverts aid for its own purposes, with the GHF accusing Hamas of threats against staff and efforts to block Palestinians from reaching distribution sites. An Israeli spokesman alleged Hamas has "stepped-up efforts to prevent" food distribution, deliberately placing Gazans "at risk of hunger."
Conversely, Hamas denies these accusations, asserting that Israel weaponizes aid and blocks life-saving supplies. Eyewitnesses and medics have reported Israeli forces opening fire on crowds near aid sites, though the IDF states it fires "warning shots" at perceived threats and investigates incidents. The UN refuses to cooperate with the GHF, deeming its setup unethical and stating no evidence has been offered of systematic aid diversion by Hamas.
Ceasefire negotiations remain stalled, primarily due to Hamas's consistent demand for a permanent end to the war and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Hamas has expressed wariness of past instances where Israel unilaterally resumed hostilities after temporary truces. Israel, however, has been reluctant to agree to a permanent ceasefire that would allow Hamas to retain influence, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating the current proposal is "far" from Israeli demands.
The ongoing conflict, which began with Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel, has displaced nearly all of Gaza's population and led to widespread hunger. While mediators continue efforts to broker a deal, the fundamental disagreements over the conflict's end and the control of aid distribution persist, contributing to the dire humanitarian conditions and prolonged suffering in the enclave.