Israel is moving to enforce punitive measures after Hamas failed to deliver the full complement of deceased hostages as stipulated in the ceasefire agreement. Officials in Jerusalem have expressed fierce frustration after only four bodies were returned—far fewer than the 28 promised under the deal—and have warned that further noncompliance will exact consequences.
The Israeli government formally announced it would halve the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza in response to the partial handover, arguing that the delay amounts to a breach of the truce’s core terms. Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, called the return of only four bodies a “clear violation” and signalled the possibility of further restrictions on goods entering Gaza, including materials such as mobile homes and bakery supplies.
Jerusalem is also reportedly discussing additional sanctions. According to media reports, Israel could intensify control over crossing points, limit reconstruction materials, and suspend promised aid unless Hamas fully complies. Though officials emphasise they are reluctant to unravel the broader ceasefire framework, the atmosphere is tense, with Israel demanding that mediators pressure Hamas to adhere strictly to its commitments.
The Red Cross and other humanitarian agencies have warned that bottling up aid risks exacerbating what is already a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. They caution that further restrictions would threaten lives in a strip ravaged by war, scarcity, and collapsed infrastructure.
