Hamas urges mediators to pressure Israel to lift Gaza siege and allow humanitarian aid

Hamas called on international mediators on Sunday to pressure Israel to lift restrictions on the Gaza Strip and allow the entry of humanitarian assistance and shelter materials, accusing Israel of failing to fulfill its obligations under the ceasefire agreement.

Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem said Israel continued to tighten its restrictions on Gaza and obstruct the delivery of relief supplies despite the ceasefire, worsening the humanitarian crisis facing Palestinians in the territory.

In a press statement, Qassem accused Israel of disregarding the efforts of mediators and countries guaranteeing the agreement.

He called on Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to intervene urgently and exert pressure to prevent further deterioration of humanitarian conditions.

Qassem also urged the mediating countries to ensure Israel’s compliance with the terms of the ceasefire agreement and the cessation of military operations in Gaza.

His remarks come amid continuing humanitarian difficulties in the Gaza Strip, where restrictions on the entry of essential supplies, widespread destruction and repeated displacement have left large numbers of Palestinians without adequate housing or basic services.

The situation has become increasingly difficult with the arrival of winter, as displaced families living in temporary tents and overcrowded shelters face exposure to heavy rainfall and cold temperatures.

Many displacement sites lack sufficient weatherproofing, heating and other essential facilities, increasing concerns over the safety and well-being of affected families.

Humanitarian appeals have emphasised the need to facilitate the entry of emergency relief supplies, particularly tents, shelter materials and equipment needed to rehabilitate damaged infrastructure.

Hamas reiterated its call for mediators to take immediate steps to secure the implementation of the ceasefire agreement and improve humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip.