March 2, 2025 (EIRNS)—Israel has halted the flow of goods into Gaza in retaliation, it says, for Hamas’ refusal to agree to the extension of phase 1 of the Gaza ceasefire. “With the end of Phase 1 of the hostage deal and in light of Hamas’s refusal to accept the [U.S. special envoy Steve] Witkoff outline for continuing talks—to which Israel agreed—Prime Minister Netanyahu has decided that, as of this morning, all entry of goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip will cease,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement, reports the Times of Israel. “Israel will not allow a ceasefire without the release of our hostages,” Netanyahu’s office continues, threatening “further consequences” if Hamas continues to say no to the proposal.
The Times of Israel reported last night that, following a four-hour meeting with top security officials, Netanyahu’s office issued a statement that it was endorsing what it described as a proposal by Witkoff which would see the ceasefire with Hamas extended through Ramadan and Passover, during which time all hostages could potentially be released. According to Israel’s account of Witkoff’s proposal, half of the remaining hostages—living and dead—would be released on the first day of the extended ceasefire, and the remaining captives would be released at the end of the period, if a permanent ceasefire is reached.
