Israeli airstrikes shatter aid efforts amid Gaza war
At least six people involved in protecting humanitarian aid convoys were killed in Israeli airstrikes conducted on Friday, according to authorities in the Gaza Strip.
In response to the escalation of violence, aid organizations and the UN have reiterated their calls for Israel to allow access for food convoys to the Palestinian enclave.
The airstrikes occurred a day after the World Food Program (WFP) reported the looting of 15 trucks carrying flour intended for local bakeries.
The Israeli side reported that on Thursday alone, 107 trucks carrying food, flour, and medical supplies entered Gaza, and since Monday—following a partial easing of the blockade—a total of 305 trucks have entered. However, according to UN data, the needs of civilians in temporary camps require deliveries of 500–600 trucks daily.
Palestinian humanitarian organizations report that since the beginning of the week, 119 aid trucks have reached Gaza. Effective distribution is further hindered by organized groups of looters. The UN noted on Friday that the amount of aid reaching Gaza is merely "a teaspoon."
The Israeli army intensified its offensive on Gaza in the middle of the month. The declared goal is the eradication of Hamas and the release of hostages taken on October 7, 2023. Meanwhile, according to the Palestinian side, the Israeli operation has claimed the lives of over 50,000 civilians and has led to a severe humanitarian crisis in the region.
