Gaza: israel Delay in Humanitarian Aid Delivery Will Impact Hostage Release, Warning by Hamas

Palestinian resistance movement Hamas accused Israel on Wednesday of deliberately obstructing humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza to delay relief efforts. Hamas leaders warned that such tactics could derail the ceasefire agreement and negatively impact hostage release negotiations.

Two senior Hamas leaders issued a statement cautioning Israel:
“Israel’s continued obstruction of aid supplies will have serious consequences, affecting not only the delivery of relief to Palestinians in Gaza but also other aspects of the ceasefire agreement, including prisoner exchanges.”

The leaders, who spoke anonymously to AFP, emphasized that Israel’s actions threaten the fragile truce that has been in place since January 19.

A senior Hamas official, also speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that Hamas had reached out to mediating countries, urging them to intervene and prevent Israel from delaying aid shipments.

Hamas officials further alleged that Israel is particularly failing to facilitate the delivery of essential humanitarian supplies, including tents, fuel, debris removal machinery, and other critical equipment.

Despite the ceasefire agreement, Hamas has repeatedly expressed frustration over Israel’s failure to adhere to its commitments regarding aid access. The movement labeled these restrictions as a direct violation of the truce and humanitarian principles.

The issue was also raised during Wednesday’s meeting in Cairo, where representatives of mediating nations were present. Hamas leaders expressed hope that mediators would guarantee Israel’s compliance and ensure uninterrupted aid flow to Gaza.