Egypt condemns Israel’s aid blockade, as ceasefire violated
On March 2nd, humanitarian aid trucks on the way to Gaza were turned back to Egypt after Israel stopped all food and supply deliveries.
According to AfricaNews, Egypt has accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said “Each party must implement its obligations. The use of aid as a weapon of collective punishment and starvation must not, cannot, or should not be allowed.”
Israel’s blockade is seen as a blatant violation of their ceasefire with Gaza, which initially began on January 19th.The first phase of the ceasefire saw a significant increase in aid deliveries. The second phase secured the release of any remaining hostages in return for Israel’s withdrawal and a permanent ceasefire, however negotiations have stopped. Hamas described Israel’s aid cutoff as “a war crime and blatant attack” on the ceasefire.
The International Committee of the Red Cross said an unravelling of the ceasefire may push Gaza’s population into crisis once again.
The United Nations’ humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher described Israel’s actions as “alarming,” and Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said it was “unacceptable” and “outrageous.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that Israel is fully prepared to resume fighting if talks are not productive, while also reiterating the governments commitment to US President Donald Trump’s administration.
Alongside this, Gaza’s residents have reported food prices doubling as a result of the blockade.
Other African countries such as Algeria have previously pledged their support for Gaza, whilst condemning Israel.
AfricaNews, Maghrebi, BBC News
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