Netanyahu's Ceasefire Extension Push Amid Gaza Crisis Faces Criticism Over Humanitarian Aid Restrictions

February 17, 2025
Netanyahu's Ceasefire Extension Push Amid Gaza Crisis Faces Criticism Over Humanitarian Aid Restrictions
  • The ongoing conflict in Gaza, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in over 48,200 deaths, primarily affecting women and children, and has left the region in significant disarray.

  • The first phase of a ceasefire agreement initiated on January 19, 2025, led to the release of 19 Israeli captives and five Thai workers in exchange for 1,135 Palestinian prisoners.

  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly seeking to extend this initial phase beyond the 42-day limit, which concludes on March 1, 2025, to secure the release of more hostages, particularly those in poor health.

  • In light of the ongoing negotiations, Netanyahu is advocating for discussions with Qatari and Egyptian mediators, supported by the U.S., to extend the ceasefire.

  • The ceasefire agreement allows for the entry of supplies and equipment into Gaza to establish at least 60,000 temporary living facilities, although full details of the deal remain unpublished.

  • Despite the ceasefire agreement, Netanyahu did not approve the entry of mobile homes and heavy equipment into Gaza during security consultations on February 15, 2025, potentially violating the terms of the deal.

  • Gaza’s government media office confirmed that no mobile homes or heavy machinery have been allowed into the enclave, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

  • Local Palestinian authorities have accused Israel of violating the humanitarian protocol of the ceasefire deal by denying access to necessary relief materials for displaced civilians.

  • Hamas has protested Israel's blocking of essential items, asserting that discussions regarding the ceasefire-hostage deal included provisions for mobile homes and heavy equipment.

  • Ismail al-Thawabtah, head of Gaza's media office, criticized Israel for not upholding its obligations under the ceasefire agreement, urging the international community to pressure Israel for compliance.

  • Israel is also facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice concerning its actions in Gaza.

  • In November 2024, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the Gaza conflict.

Summary based on 2 sources


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