Hamas Declares ‘No Point’ in Talks Amidst Israel’s Plans for Expanded Gaza Offensive

A senior Hamas official, Bassem Naim, stated there’s "no point" in discussing new ceasefire talks as Israel intensifies its military operations in Gaza. He criticized Israel’s actions as a "starvation war," emphasizing that any negotiations would not proceed under current conditions.

The Israeli military aims to secure the return of hostages held by Hamas, which they describe as a "wide-scale operation" for a decisive defeat of the group. This operation could involve significant control over Gaza, potentially displacing many residents and managing humanitarian aid, following a blockade that has led to severe food shortages.

Israeli officials mentioned that this offensive would not start until after U.S. President Trump’s upcoming visit to the region. However, Naim’s comments suggest that Hamas is not interested in negotiations at this time.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that an extended military presence would likely result in more civilian casualties and further devastation in Gaza. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have voiced serious concerns, advocating for a renewed peace process.

In a recent statement, President Trump mentioned that the U.S. plans to provide food aid to Gaza, noting the severe conditions there. He suggested that Hamas is exacerbating the suffering by diverting aid meant for the people.

Since the ceasefire collapsed on March 2, Israel has halted all aid deliveries and resumed military operations, citing the need to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages. Despite accusations of Hamas hoarding aid, the group denies these claims.

Aid organizations have warned that without a shift in policy, mass starvation in Gaza could become a reality. They also criticized Israel’s proposal to deliver aid through private entities at military hubs, arguing it might violate humanitarian principles.

The UN emphasizes that Israel is responsible for ensuring access to food and medical supplies for Gaza’s inhabitants. In response, Israel claims it is abiding by international law and insists there is no aid shortage.

The current conflict follows a shocking attack on October 7, 2023, leaving approximately 1,200 people dead and over 250 taken hostage. Since then, reports indicate that over 52,000 lives have been lost in Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian intervention.

For further information on the humanitarian crisis, you can visit the UN’s official report on the matter here.

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