Israel Permits Humanitarian Aid to Gaza from Egypt Amidst Hostage Situation

Israel’s wartime cabinet has decided to allow the passage of essential humanitarian aid from Egypt to the besieged Gaza Strip. The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office clarified that the aid, consisting of food, water, and medicine for civilians in southern Gaza, would be permitted, but any supplies reaching Hamas would be thwarted.

However, the passage of humanitarian aid from Israel to Gaza would remain prohibited until hostages kidnapped by Hamas were returned. This decision was in response to a request from US President Joe Biden, who was visiting Israel, and Israel also demanded that the Red Cross be allowed to visit the hostages. Israel had previously cut off Gaza’s supply of electricity, water, and food in response to the October 7 attack by Hamas.

The World Food Programme expressed concern about food shortages in Gaza and urgently needed funds to continue its operations. Israel also announced a ban on flying civilian drones and model aircraft throughout the country to reduce potential security risks during the conflict.