Partial Aid Reaches Gaza as Blockade Eases; Palestinians Call for More

 

Partial Aid Reaches Gaza as Blockade Eases; Palestinians Call for More

Some basic supplies, including bread and baby food, have begun reaching vulnerable populations in Gaza as Israel allowed a limited number of trucks to enter the territory, marking the first easing of restrictions in over two months. On Thursday, Israel permitted 100 trucks carrying food, medical supplies, and essentials through the Kerem Shalom crossing, following international pressure and a declaration of a partial relaxation of the blockade.

Israel imposed the blockade in March, accusing Hamas of seizing aid supplies for its fighters—a charge Hamas denies. The United Nations warns that a quarter of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents face the risk of famine, and the current aid influx is far below the amounts previously allowed, which averaged around 600 trucks daily before the escalation.

Amjad al-Shawa, representing Gaza’s NGOs, stated that some bakeries would begin receiving flour to produce bread, with distribution expected later in the day. However, he emphasized that the current aid is insufficient to meet the demand, describing it as a "drop in the ocean" compared to normal levels.

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Clashes and Humanitarian Crisis

Meanwhile, Israeli military strikes have continued, causing further casualties. Health authorities in Gaza reported at least 35 Palestinians killed on Thursday, including an incident where a tank shell hit a medicine warehouse at Al-Awda Hospital, setting it ablaze. Medical facilities are overwhelmed, with many out of service due to ongoing strikes and a ban on medical supplies entering the enclave.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that Israel might consider a temporary ceasefire to facilitate the return of hostages taken by Hamas. However, he emphasized that if the hostages are not returned, Israel intends to continue its military campaign to gain total control of Gaza. Hamas officials responded critically, accusing Netanyahu of stalling and insisting that only a permanent end to the violence would be meaningful.

Since the start of Israel’s campaign in Gaza in response to Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, over 53,600 Palestinians have been killed, and widespread destruction and malnutrition persist across the coastal strip.