Israel has announced that it will suspend the issuance of automatic visas for United Nations (UN) employees, escalating tensions between the nation and the intergovernmental organization amidst the ongoing conflict with Palestinian militant group, Hamas, in Gaza. The move comes as Israel seeks to disassociate itself from those perceived to be cooperating with what they call "Hamas's terror regime's propaganda machine."

Israeli government spokesperson Eylon Levy stated on Tuesday that visa requests from UN employees will now be evaluated on a "case-by-case basis." Levy emphasized that Israel will not work with individuals who collude with Hamas, accusing international officials of trying to shift blame onto Israel and failing to denounce Hamas for exploiting aid and conducting warfare from hospitals.

Echoing its concerns, Israel is calling on its allies to adopt a similar stance and stand up for "basic integrity." This development further escalates tensions between Israel and the United Nations, which have been mounting in recent weeks due to the UN's repeated calls for a cease-fire in Gaza.

According to the Gaza Health Ministry, since early October, over 20,900 Palestinians have lost their lives, intensifying Israel's determination to dismantle Hamas and cripple its military capabilities following the group's attack on Israel on October 7, which resulted in approximately 1,200 casualties.

While some UN officials have condemned the October 7 attacks by Hamas, recent weeks have seen a renewed focus on seeking a cease-fire and bolstering humanitarian aid in Gaza. Last month, the United Nations passed a nonbinding resolution for a cease-fire in Gaza, with only 10 countries, including the US and Israel, voting against it.

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres and other UN leaders have consistently advocated for increased aid to Gaza and a cessation of hostilities, highlighting the dire state of the humanitarian system in the coastal enclave.

Last week, the U.N. Security Council passed a resolution urging for enhanced delivery of humanitarian assistance to the Gaza Strip and the release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas. Following its incursion into Israel on October 7, Hamas has reportedly taken around 240 people hostage, having released about 100 individuals during a temporary cease-fire.

The United States abstained from voting on the recent resolution but did not block it. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, emphasized the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as a top priority, despite the U.S. not officially joining calls for a cease-fire. The U.S. has, however, urged Israel to exercise greater caution in order to minimize civilian casualties in Gaza.

As the conflict continues, the halt on automatic visas for UN employees marks another significant development in the strained relationship between Israel and the United Nations. It remains to be seen how this move will further impact the dynamics in the region and the ongoing efforts to achieve peace and stability in Gaza.