Three of Israel’s key allies — Britain, France, and Canada — have announced joint sanctions in response to the growing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. This move marks an unprecedented level of unified pressure on Israel over its military operations.
A Strong Message Against Escalation
In a rare show of unity, the three Western governments released a joint statement. They condemned the military escalation and blockade of humanitarian aid as “egregious” and “disproportionate.” Their message was clear: if Israel continues to expand its offensive, there will be consequences.
“We will not remain silent while the Netanyahu government acts in this manner,” the statement said. “If Israel fails to halt its renewed military actions and does not allow humanitarian aid, we will respond with further concrete steps.” 
Netanyahu’s Firm Stance on Victory
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the criticism. He insisted that Israel would continue to defend itself until it achieves “total victory.”
“The leaders in London, Ottawa, and Paris are rewarding the genocidal attack against Israel on October 7,” he said. “They are inviting more such atrocities through their actions.”
Starvation Forces Partial Blockade Lift
After weeks of growing international concern, Netanyahu announced a partial easing of the 11-week siege on Gaza. He said the decision aimed to prevent a large-scale “starvation crisis.”
However, the relief was minimal. The United Nations confirmed that only nine trucks of aid were cleared to enter the territory. That is less than 2% of what Gaza used to receive daily before the war.
Back then, residents had regular access to food, supported by a modest agricultural sector. Now, with infrastructure in ruins, the aid is far from enough.
Allies Demand Humanitarian Standards
Britain, France, and Canada described the recent move as “wholly inadequate.” They warned that Israel risked breaching international law and demanded a return to aid distribution based on humanitarian principles.
Netanyahu Faces Criticism from Within
Even Netanyahu’s own cabinet members — especially those from the far-right — criticized his decision to allow aid. The prime minister responded with a video posted on social media. In it, he claimed that close allies had pressured him to act.
For weeks, Israeli officials denied that Gaza was facing food shortages. But Netanyahu admitted that even Israel’s “greatest friends” had warned him. They said they could not continue supporting Israel if starvation continued.
“They told me they cannot accept images of widespread hunger,” Netanyahu said. “They cannot support us if that happens.”
He added that desperation in Gaza was pushing Israel toward a “red line,” though he did not explain what that meant.
Trump Adds to the Pressure
Former U.S. President Donald Trump also weighed in. He noted during a regional visit that “a lot of people are starving” in Gaza. He promised he would “take care of the situation.”
Trump’s comments came shortly after he helped secure the release of a dual U.S.-Israeli hostage held by Hamas. Many had hoped this would lead to a broader ceasefire.
However, Israel launched a fresh ground offensive immediately after his visit, dashing those expectations.
Casualties Mount Amid Renewed Strikes
Over the weekend, Israel carried out heavy bombardments across Gaza. These strikes reportedly killed hundreds of people, many of whom were civilians. Hospitals, already stretched thin, also came under fire.
The total death toll inside Gaza has now reached more than 53,000. Most of the victims are non-combatants, according to local health authorities.
Khan Younis Declared a Combat Zone
The Israeli military declared central Khan Younis a “combat zone.” Civilians were ordered to evacuate immediately.
But most residents have already been displaced several times. With food scarce and infrastructure destroyed, many simply have nowhere to go.
