Israel to Allow Minimal Food Aid into Gaza Following 10-Week Blockade
We’re tracking the latest developments in the Middle East, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza.
This past Sunday, Israel announced that it would begin to permit a “basic amount” of food to enter Gaza. This decision comes after mounting international pressure to lift the extensive blockade that had been in place for ten weeks.
From Benjamin Netanyahu’s office came the statement:
“In line with IDF recommendations and the necessity to facilitate military operations aimed at defeating Hamas, Israel will allow a basic quantity of food into the Gaza Strip to prevent a starvation crisis.”
The lockdown began in early March, cutting off all supplies, including food, medicine, shelter, and fuel, which many have deemed collective punishment for Gaza’s civilian population.
As a result of these restrictions, most community kitchens in Gaza have ceased operations. Major food organizations, including the UN’s World Food Programme and World Central Kitchen, have reported that they are running out of supplies. Access to affordable vegetables and meat is virtually nonexistent, forcing long lines of people to wait for limited rations like a small scoop of rice.
According to Axios, two senior Israeli officials indicated that the resumption of aid would occur through existing channels until new systems are put in place.
Following an escalation in military actions, the Israeli Army declared it began extensive ground operations aimed at gaining full control over various territories in Gaza.
