U.N. Efforts to Deliver Aid Amid Delays in Gaza
DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — The United Nations announced on Wednesday its ongoing efforts to deliver vital aid that reached Gaza this week. However, delays are caused by concerns about theft and Israeli military restrictions. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, recent Israeli bombardments have resulted in at least 86 fatalities.
New Israeli Aid System Under Criticism
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed that a new aid system for Gaza is set to be implemented soon, despite facing significant international backlash. He stated that a future plan involves establishing a “sterile zone” devoid of Hamas, where displaced individuals would receive supplies after relocating.
Hostage Release Required for War Conclusion
As the prospect of renewed ceasefire discussions appears bleak, Netanyahu emphasized that the conflict would only cease if Hamas releases all hostages and complies with a plan proposed by President Donald Trump to move Gaza’s population outside the territory. This plan has been broadly rejected by the Palestinians and much of the global community.
Limited Aid Access and Food Shortages
Under mounting international pressure, Israel permitted a limited number of aid trucks to enter Gaza after a protracted blockade of nearly three months. However, these supplies remain stagnant at the Kerem Shalom crossing. Food security experts have raised alarms that Gaza is at risk of famine, with malnutrition becoming increasingly prevalent as communal kitchens deplete their resources.
Gaza Aid Distribution Challenges
A U.N. spokesperson noted that while many supplies arrived, there were challenges in transferring them due to unsafe routes designated by the Israeli military. Aid groups have reported that what little assistance Israel allows is insufficient; previously, about 600 trucks entered daily under previous ceasefires.
Netanyahu’s Future Plans for Gaza
Netanyahu indicated that the gradual easing of the blockade is a temporary measure until an aid distribution system he envisions is fully established. Critics argue that this system effectively uses humanitarian aid as leverage to displace Gaza’s population.
Ongoing Violence and Humanitarian Crisis
Israeli airstrikes have continued across Gaza, with multiple casualties reported, including women and children. Hospitals are under siege, limiting their operational capabilities. The conflict began following a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel, leading to extensive casualties and further devastation in Gaza, where over 53,000 Palestinians have reportedly died according to local health officials.
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