Israeli Defense Minister, Israel Katz says Israel has adopted a policy of blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza to undermine Hamas’ control over the population.

In a statement a day after a field visit to Gaza with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and senior military commanders, Katz outlined Israel’s broader war strategy, which he said aims to secure the release of hostages and ultimately defeat Hamas.

According to him Israel resumed its blockade on the entry of food, water, medicine, fuel, and other supplies on March 2 adding that aid has been withheld to undermine Hamas’s control over the population and prepare the ground for future aid distribution via private companies without Hamas’ involvement.