Israel: Hamas is using Gaza’s suffering as a weapon

Israel accused Hamas of using Gaza’s suffering as a weapon, following reports from a US and Israeli-backed charity that its staff had been killed, Al-Monitor reported via AFP on June 12th.

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) said Hamas attacked a bus carrying aid workers towards Khan Yunis late on June 11th. The assault reportedly killed at least eight workers. Israel condemned the act, accusing Hamas of denying food, targeting aid workers, and abandoning its own people.

According to Gaza’s civil defence agency, dozens have died at aid distribution points. Medical staff in Gaza reported being overwhelmed by casualties, while infrastructure damage and communications blackouts have deepened the crisis.

On June 6th, the BBC reported and Maghrebi cited that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed Israel is arming Gaza clans opposed to Hamas. His statement followed media reports that defence officials had approved the transfer of weapons to a group in southern Gaza, led by Yasser Abu Shabab.

The group claims to protect aid trucks but faces accusations of theft. Defence sources said Israel supplied them with Kalashnikov rifles, including some which were taken from Hamas. Netanyahu dismissed criticism, while some politicians warned of rising security risks.

Tensions also rise after Hamas rejected a U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal. According to The National on May 30th, Hamas viewed the plan as biased and said it did not guaranteee that indirect talks with Israel during the proposed 60-day truce would prompt a ceasefire.

Hamas also allegedly objected to the proposal’s handling of humanitarian aid. Hamas reportedly believes the plan ignores key concerns and favors Israeli demands without addressing Gaza’s worsening humanitarian crisis.

However, as reported by Middle East Eye on June 5th, Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya clarified that Hamas did not reject the US-Tel Aviv ceasefire proposal.

Instead, he stated that Hamas had requested certain amendments aimed at securing a lasting ceasefire in Gaza and remains willing to continue negotiations.

Al-Monitor via AFP, BBC, Maghrebi.org, Middle East Eye, The National