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Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu (AP Image)
Israel must ensure "full, rapid, safe, and unhindered" provision of
humanitarian aid
for the people of Gaza, the Foreign ministers of Britain, France, and Germany said in a joint statement on Wednesday.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stopped the entry of essential aid into the Gaza Strip on Sunday.
His office said it was in response to "Hamas' refusal" to accept an outline for the resumption of truce talks presented by US President Donald Trump's envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff.
"It is vital that the ceasefire is sustained, all the hostages are released, and continued flows of humanitarian aid to Gaza are ensured," Britain, France, and Germany said.
Israel wants truce extension, Hamas pushes for phase two
The Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal, which was to be implemented in stages, took effect on January 19 and included a surge in humanitarian assistance. The first phase of the deal expired on Saturday.
The two sides disagree about the next steps in the truce. Israel wants more hostages to be released under an extension of the first phase. But Hamas is pushing for the start of the second phase that would pave the way for a permanent end to the war.
Over 250 hostages were taken by Hamas-led militants during the October 7, 2023 attack in the south of Israel, which triggered the current conflict in Gaza.
The UN World Food Program said it only has enough food supplies in the Gaza Strip to keep public kitchens and bakeries open for less than two weeks.
The International Organization for Migration currently has 22,500 tents sitting in its warehouses in Jordan. Its supply trucks brought back their undelivered cargo once entry to Gaza was barred.
The International Rescue Commission has 6.7 tons (14,771 pounds) of medicines and medical supplies waiting to enter Gaza.
Trump threatens Hamas if hostages are not released
Later on Wednesday, US President Donald Trump said he would increase military support to Israel if Hamas does not hand over the remaining hostages.
"You can choose. Release all of the Hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you," Trump said in a post on his Truth Social network, addressing Hamas militants.
"I am sending Israel everything it needs to finish the job, not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don’t do as I say," he warned.
Trump also seemingly threatened the people of Gaza.
"To the People of Gaza: A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are DEAD!" Trump said.
He vowed that there would be "hell to pay" if Hamas does not release hostages.
South Africa says Israel using 'starvation as a weapon of war'
In a separate statement, South Africa said Israel's actions amounted to using "starvation as a weapon of war."
"The people of Gaza are experiencing immeasurable suffering and urgently need food, shelter, and medical supplies," the South African foreign ministry said.
"South Africa calls on the international community to hold Israel accountable," it added.
Pretoria brought its case to the International Court of Justice in December 2023, accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.
Israel has strongly rejected the charge.
Several other nations, including Ireland, Spain, Bolivia, Colombia, Mexico, Turkey, Chile, and Libya, have added their weight to the proceedings.
Palestinian authorities say at least 48,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's military response to the October 7, 2023 attack. The UN says around 90% of the Gaza Strip's 2 million residents have been displaced, some multiple times.
