International law applies to the conflict in Gaza: Humanitarian aid should always be allowed

“The Israeli decision to cut off vital aid to the war-ravaged territory of Gaza is worsening the humanitarian crisis for the Strip’s 2.4 million residents. This move effectively weaponises humanitarian assistance, using it as leverage to pressure Hamas. Under international law, particularly the Fourth Geneva Convention, both Israeli and Palestinian armed forces have an obligation to protect civilians and allow humanitarian aid to reach those in need. Indeed, restricting aid access violates these principles and exacerbates the suffering of innocent people caught in the conflict. Additionally, as Arab countries meet in Cairo to address the crisis in Gaza, the United States has accelerated the delivery of USD 4 billion in military aid to Israel, further highlighting the urgent need to reach common ground on Gaza’s future and the broader conflict, prioritising the well-being of the people. As such, the current impasse on the ceasefire threatens to derail the fragile truce reached after 15 months of devastating war in Gaza. With the first phase coming to an end, deep disagreements between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist movement are now jeopardising the continuation of the process. Hamas insists that the next phase must include a “comprehensive and permanent ceasefire” and a “complete withdrawal” of Israeli forces from Gaza. In contrast, Israel prioritises securing the release of more hostages by asking for an extension of the first phase. This, while reserving the right to resume fighting at any time to destroy Hamas if it does not disarm.”