Israeli Officials Confirm Gaza Aid Resumption Amid Hamas Diversion Concerns

Senior Israeli officials revealed that U.S. President Donald Trump’s envoy proposed a deal involving a 45-to-60-day ceasefire and Palestinian prisoner release in exchange for 10 living hostages and 16 remains, which Israel welcomed but Hamas effectively rejected. Despite this, ongoing diplomatic efforts involving Qatari and Egyptian mediators continue, with hopes that increasing Israeli military pressure might change Hamas's stance. The Israeli government’s decision to resume humanitarian aid to Gaza has sparked fierce criticism from right-wing politicians, including Avigdor Liberman and others, who argue that most aid will benefit Hamas and undermine the war effort and hostage negotiations. U.S. President Trump acknowledged the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, supporting Israel's shift to resume aid through international organizations until a new Gaza Humanitarian Foundation is operational. Critics warn that allowing humanitarian aid risks fueling Hamas, while officials seek ways to provide aid that bypasses Hamas control to pressure the group. These developments underscore the complex balance between addressing humanitarian needs and maintaining leverage against Hamas amid ongoing conflict.