Hamas has made resolving the humanitarian crisis in Gaza a precondition for engaging in further ceasefire negotiations, as Israeli sources indicate that the framework for a partial deal may be abandoned.
In a statement on Thursday, the Palestinian movement said it was ready to “immediately re-engage in negotiations once aid reaches those in need and the humanitarian crisis and famine in Gaza are brought to an end”.
It added that continuing talks under current conditions would be “meaningless and futile” while Israel maintains what it described as a policy of starvation against Palestinians in the besieged enclave.
Since March, Israel has imposed a near-total blockade on aid and goods entering Gaza. Health officials say the policy has led to a growing number of deaths from malnutrition, with at least 159 people – including 90 children – now reported to have died from starvation-related causes.
Earlier this week, a leading UN-backed global hunger monitoring body warned that the “worst-case scenario of famine” is unfolding in Gaza.
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