Israel and Hamas accuse each other of violating the ceasefire – aid to Gaza stalls

Tensions between Israel and Hamas are escalating again, with both sides accusing each other of violating the ceasefire agreement brokered by the US. Israel has announced its intention to reopen the Rafah border crossing for the movement of people, but not for humanitarian aid.

Hamas has questioned this decision and holds Israel responsible for the deaths of 24 Palestinians since Friday.

The handover of the bodies of hostages also remains contentious – Israel is demanding 28, but Hamas has so far only handed over ten. The recovery work is being made even more difficult by the use of heavy equipment.

Meanwhile, the UN warns that parts of the Gaza Strip are facing acute famine. Humanitarian aid is only reaching the region to a limited extent – according to the UN, 600 trucks are “just a drop in the ocean.”

Israel insists on controlling aid deliveries via Kerem Shalom and continues to refuse to open Rafah for supplies. The US's longer-term plan envisages the disarmament of Hamas and the establishment of a Palestinian state – something Israel has so far rejected.

(reuters, lup)