Jordan warns Israel’s aid blockade could lead to renewed fighting in Gaza

AMMAN, March 3, 2025 (BSS/AFP) – Jordan has strongly condemned Israel’s recent decision to block humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, expressing concerns that the move could reignite the fighting that has been largely suspended since a truce was implemented six weeks ago.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Jordan’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Sufyan Qudah, stated that Israel’s action “threatens to reignite the situation in the Strip.” He called on Israel to cease “using starvation as a weapon against innocent Palestinians who are under siege, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.”

The decision to halt aid flow comes at a particularly sensitive time, as the region is already suffering from severe humanitarian conditions after more than a year of conflict. Many in Gaza are already struggling with widespread hunger, destruction, and displacement caused by the ongoing violence. The Jordanian statement is a reminder of the dire situation in the region, as millions of Palestinians in Gaza face deteriorating living conditions with limited access to food, medical supplies, and shelter.

Jordan has long been a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights and has consistently pushed for an end to the Israeli blockade on Gaza, which has been in place for years. The latest blockade on humanitarian aid marks a significant escalation in tensions, and many fear that it could lead to further violence, particularly as both sides continue to negotiate a long-term ceasefire.

In addition, the suspension of aid threatens to exacerbate the already dire conditions in Gaza as essential supplies of food, water, and medical assistance are critically needed. Local authorities have reported that Gaza’s hospitals are overwhelmed, and the health sector has been crippled by the prolonged conflict.

Related Context:

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas escalated in October 2023 following a large-scale attack by Hamas militants, which led to significant casualties in both Israel and Gaza. Since then, multiple ceasefires have been attempted, with varying degrees of success. The truce that has been in effect for the past six weeks saw some respite for Gaza, but tensions have remained high, and this latest development has raised concerns that the fragile peace could collapse.

The UN and other international bodies have expressed growing concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the impact of the blockade. Both the United Nations and humanitarian groups have called for a continuous flow of aid to prevent further suffering among Gaza’s civilian population.

Many regional players, including Egypt and Qatar, have also condemned Israel’s actions, with Egypt taking a leading role as a mediator in ceasefire negotiations.