Israel has halted all humanitarian aid to Gaza after Hamas rejected a U.S.-backed proposal to extend the ceasefire’s first phase. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hamas of diverting aid to fund its operations, calling the group’s actions a manipulation of international relief efforts. The U.S. endorsed Israel’s decision, with National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes stating, “We will support their next steps given Hamas has indicated it’s no longer interested in a negotiated ceasefire” [1][3][4].
The ceasefire’s first phase, active since January 19, allowed 600 aid trucks daily into Gaza, delivering food, medicine, and fuel. Israel claims Hamas stockpiled supplies for 4–6 months and diverted resources to sustain its military activities [1][9]. Hamas rejected a U.S. proposal to extend the ceasefire through Ramadan and Passover, which would have required releasing remaining hostages in phases. Netanyahu warned of “further consequences” if Hamas refuses to compromise, signaling potential military escalation [4][6][9].
Egypt and Qatar condemned Israel’s aid cutoff as a violation of international law, with Egypt’s Foreign Minister calling it “starvation as a weapon” [1][3][6]. The U.N. warned of renewed famine risks, noting Gaza’s reliance on aid after months of shortages. Legal experts, including former Human Rights Watch head Kenneth Roth, accused Israel of resuming a “war-crime starvation strategy” [3][6].
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Christians worldwide participated in , a 25-hour global prayer event on March 1, 2025, aimed at fostering unity and preparing believers for evangelism. Organized by ministries including Trinity Broadcasting Network, the event featured worship, repentance, and testimonies from persecuted churches across seven continents [2][5][7].
– : A free, livestreamed broadcast with sessions hosted in Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Romania, Rwanda, the U.K., and the U.S. [5][7].
– : Over 11,848 registered groups from 187 countries joined in churches, homes, or online [2][10].
– : Mobilizing 2.5 billion Christians to fulfill the Great Commission by sharing the Gospel with 5.5 billion non-belivers [5][10].
Speakers like Jennie Allen and artists such as Kari Jobe emphasized spiritual readiness for Jesus’ return, citing John 17:22–23’s call for unity among believers [2][7].
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The U.S. and Israel’s hardened stance against Hamas reflects growing frustration with the group’s refusal to negotiate, while Gather 25 underscores global Christian efforts to address spiritual needs amid geopolitical turmoil. Both developments highlight escalating tensions in the Middle East and the Church’s response through collective action.
