Israeli foreign minister claims Gaza aid is not 'humanitarian'

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar attempted to justify Israel’s decision to cut off aid to Gaza, claiming on Tuesday - without evidence - that humanitarian assistance fuels Hamas.

Israel halted aid deliveries on Sunday, worsening an already catastrophic crisis.

"Aid that goes to Hamas is not humanitarian," Sa’ar claimed, ignoring the dire need for food and medical supplies for 2.2 million Palestinians in Gaza. Israel has been accused of seeking to starve Palestinians and weaponising aid.

"Unfortunately, Hamas takeover of goods turned it into an economic engine for them. It became the number one budget income for Hamas in Gaza. They use that money for terror, to restore terror capabilities and get more young terrorists to join their organisation," he claimed.

Sa’ar insisted the blockade was in line with the ceasefire agreement, portraying it as a legitimate move, despite it being considered an act of collective punishment under international law.

He accused Hamas of rejecting a ceasefire extension while ignoring Israel’s refusal to proceed with phase two negotiations, which Hamas has already agreed to begin.