Hamas has reaffirmed its refusal to disarm unless an independent Palestinian state is established. The group released a second video of Israeli hostage Evyatar David, who warned that time is running out for a ceasefire. The family of the hostage demanded aid reach their son, with thousands gathered in Tel Aviv holding posters and chanting for his immediate release.
Indirect negotiations aimed at securing a 60-day ceasefire ended in deadlock. Israel blames Hamas for the suffering in Gaza but has announced measures to ease access to aid. The German government called for more aid, stating it is “very insufficient.” France’s foreign minister also denounced Hamas’s videos of Israeli hostages and urged massive humanitarian aid.
The international community is growing concerned about the situation in Gaza, where severe shortages of food and other essentials have led to widespread suffering. UN-backed food security experts warned that the “worst-case scenario of famine” is now playing out in Gaza. Hospitals reported 12 people killed by Israeli fire on Saturday, including eight who were trying to get food.
A plan to end the war in Gaza was announced by Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, but details have not been released. The UN says that airdrops of food are insufficient and Israel must let in more aid by land quickly. Seven Palestinians died of malnutrition-related causes over the past 24 hours, bringing the total deaths among children to 93 since the war began.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with thousands gathering to demand an end to the conflict. The international community is urging both sides to prioritize humanitarian aid and a ceasefire.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/aug/03/israel-gaza-war-hamas-releases-second-video-of-hostage