Israel has announced it is suspending the flow of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, criticising Hamas for rejecting a US offer to extend a ceasefire. Tel Aviv threatened "other consequences" in the event of continued disagreement.

"Prime Minister (Benjamin) Netanyahu has decided that as of this morning, the entry of all goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip will be suspended. Israel will not accept a ceasefire without the release of our hostages," the prime minister's office said.

"If Hamas continues to refuse, there will be further consequences," it added.

Hamas criticized Israel's move and described it as a "war crime" and a violation of the ceasefire agreement.

"Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to stop humanitarian aid is cheap blackmail, a war crime and a clear coup against the (ceasefire) agreement," the Palestinian group said. | BGNES