Israel has initiated a daily “tactical pause” in military operations in parts of the Gaza Strip to allow for the delivery of humanitarian aid. The move comes amid intense international pressure over a severe and escalating starvation crisis. The pause, effective from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time daily “until further notice,” is intended to create secure routes for aid convoys.
However, the United Nations (UN) and various aid agencies have stated that the measures are not nearly enough to address the catastrophic humanitarian situation. The UN reported that while about 100 trucks with supplies entered the enclave on Sunday, this volume is insufficient to “stave off the looming famine” facing Gaza’s entire population. This new measure, the Gaza aid pause, is being closely watched by the international community.
Hamas has criticised the Israeli announcement as “deceptive” and ineffective, arguing it does little to alleviate the suffering of Palestinians. The situation on the ground remains dire. There are reports of civilians being killed in Israeli strikes outside the designated pause areas and another baby reportedly dying from starvation.
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Aid delivery challenges persist
Despite the announced aid pause, significant obstacles remain. Humanitarian groups have long criticised aid airdrops, a method also employed recently, as inefficient, dangerous and an inadequate substitute for safe, sustained land access.
Navigating the war-torn territory, even during lulls in fighting, presents immense challenges for aid workers. Medical professionals on the ground fear that the trickle of aid may be too late for many, particularly children, with the UN’s World Food Programme estimating that nearly 100 000 women and children are already suffering from severe acute malnutrition. The effectiveness of the pause will ultimately be measured by its ability to meaningfully increase the flow of life-saving supplies to those in desperate need.
Image via CBS News.
