Israel has announced a stop on all aid and goods supplies to the Gaza Strip, warning of "additional consequences" if Hamas does not accept the proposal to extend the ceasefire, Reuters reported.
The decision was made by Israel after the first phase of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas ended on February 28. During this period, humanitarian aid has been significantly increased.
However, the two sides have yet to reach an agreement on the next phase, in which Hamas plans to release more hostages in exchange for Israel's withdrawal and moving towards a long-term ceasefire.
The Israeli government has said it is ready to extend the first phase of the ceasefire until April 20, which coincides with the December and Passover holidays.
According to this proposal, Hamas will release half of the hostages on the first day and the rest when the two sides reach an agreement on a permanent ceasefire.
However, Hamas criticized Israel's decision to stop aid, calling it an act of " cheap blackmail, war crimes and violation of the ceasefire agreement".
Israel insists that if Hamas does not change its stance, it could continue the war and be ready to re-deploy troops in Gaza if the conflict continues. There was no immediate response from intermediaries in the talks, including Egypt and Qatar.
