Following mounting international pressure and a stern warning from US President Joe Biden, Israel's Cabinet has announced the opening of aid routes to the besieged Gaza Strip. The move aims to address the urgent humanitarian needs in the region, particularly in the wake of recent attacks on aid workers.
According to reports from Qatar-based media Al-Jazeera, Israel's security ministry revealed that 250 aid trucks will enter Gaza daily through the Karem Abu Salem (Karem Shalom) crossing in southern Israel. Additionally, another 100 relief trucks will be allowed entry through the Rafah border crossing with Egypt.
In a significant development, Israel has announced the reopening of the Bait Hanun (Erez) crossing in northern Gaza, facilitating the flow of aid into the region. Temporary aid deliveries will also be permitted through the Ashdod port.
The decision comes in the aftermath of an Israeli attack earlier this week, which resulted in the tragic loss of seven aid workers affiliated with the World Central Kitchen Group, led by celebrity chef Jose Andres. The incident prompted international aid agencies to suspend relief operations in Gaza.
While Israel attributed the attack to a mistake in the tactics employed during the Gaza conflict, concerns have been raised regarding the safety of humanitarian workers in the region. US President Joe Biden conveyed a clear message to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, warning of a potential shift in US policy towards Israel if civilian protection measures are not ensured.
Israel's commitment to allowing aid deliveries underscores efforts to address the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, particularly in light of the looming threat of famine. The announcement of aid routes opening coincides with heightened international scrutiny and calls for accountability in the ongoing conflict.
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