A group of independent human rights experts has strongly condemned Israel’s decision to break from the Gaza ceasefire agreement, block humanitarian aid, and reinstate a full siege on the enclave. The move, which Israeli authorities justified as a response to alleged Hamas violations, has sparked widespread criticism for deepening an already catastrophic humanitarian crisis.
In a joint statement, the experts accused Israel of once again “weaponising starvation” by deliberately cutting off vital supplies, including food, medical aid, and essential provisions for people with disabilities. “Israel, as the occupying power, is legally obligated to provide sufficient food, medical supplies, and relief services,” they stated. “By deliberately withholding aid, it is committing serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights laws, amounting to war crimes under the Rome Statute.”
The ceasefire, which took effect on 19 January 2025, was intended to lead to a permanent cessation of hostilities and the release of unlawfully detained individuals on both sides. However, the experts pointed out that the truce had already been fragile, with harsh conditions continuing for Palestinians in Gaza. They noted that even during the ceasefire, very few relief supplies were allowed in, and many civilians, including children and the elderly, continued to die from cold and malnutrition.
The situation has now worsened dramatically, with the renewed blockade expected to push Gaza’s population deeper into suffering. The experts warned that after 16 months of relentless bombardment, forced displacement, and the destruction of 80 percent of the region’s farmland and infrastructure, Israel’s decision to reinstate a full siege could have devastating consequences.
Beyond Gaza, the experts raised concerns over escalating violence in the occupied West Bank. Israeli forces and armed settlers have intensified attacks on Palestinian communities, forcibly depopulating refugee camps and cities. “Israel’s annexation of Palestinian land is advancing at full speed,” they said, highlighting what they described as a systematic campaign to make conditions unlivable for Palestinians across all occupied territories.
The group also criticised the international community’s response, pointing out that while some states and regional organisations swiftly backed Israel’s decision to cut off aid, they had largely ignored Israel’s own breaches of the ceasefire. “It is alarming that Israel’s violations of the truce have gone largely unreported, while Hamas’ alleged actions have been used to justify collective punishment,” the statement said.
The experts urged ceasefire mediators, including Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, to step in and preserve the agreement in line with international legal obligations. They also called on world governments to act decisively to prevent further escalation, warning that continued inaction could lead to even greater instability.
“The ceasefire was supposed to offer a glimpse of hope for Palestinians and Israelis,” they said. “Instead, it has become clear that fire against the Palestinians never truly ceased. Without urgent intervention, this brutal assault on Palestinian rights will continue, and the world risks being swept into a growing storm of lawlessness and injustice.”
