Israel will allow temporary aid deliveries via its border with the northern Gaza Strip. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s office announced the decision on Friday, following a warning from US President Joe Biden. Aid will be allowed through Ashdod and the Erez checkpoint in order to prevent a humanitarian crisis and support ongoing efforts in the conflict. The move comes after international pressure on Israel following a strike that killed seven employees of US-based charity World Central Kitchen.
In a call with Netanyahu, Biden described the strike as unacceptable and called for an immediate ceasefire. The US has made it clear that its policy will depend on specific actions taken by Israel to address civilian harm, humanitarian suffering, and aid worker safety. The White House welcomed Israel’s decision to increase aid flow to Gaza, urging swift implementation.
Gaza has been under Israeli blockade during the conflict, leading to concerns about humanitarian aid access. Israel denies impeding aid deliveries. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with 1,170 Israelis and foreigners, mostly civilians, killed in Hamas’s attack on October 7. Israel’s retaliatory campaign has claimed at least 33,037 lives in Gaza, predominantly women and children. Israel will also allow increased Jordanian aid through Kerem Shalom, a border crossing in southern Israel.
