Humanitarian Aid Trucks Begin Distribution in Gaza Amid Ongoing Blockade
A total of 87 trucks loaded with humanitarian aid arrived late Wednesday night at various international and civil society organizations, tasked with distributing the aid to the Palestinian population across several areas of the Gaza Strip, as reported by the Gazan government.
In a statement released today, it was noted that these aid trucks, which had gained access through the Kerem Shalom crossing, are intended to address urgent humanitarian needs within the territory. Local sources confirmed to EFE that distribution has already begun, with flour shipments being delivered to bakeries in Khan Younis in the south and in the central Gaza areas of Deir Al Balah, Zawaida, and Nuseirat.
This influx of aid comes after a prolonged period of total blockade affecting food, fuel, and medicine supplies imposed by Israel since March 2. According to the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), the Israeli military body that oversees aid access, a total of 100 trucks from the United Nations and various international organizations entered Gaza this Wednesday, carrying flour, baby food, and medical supplies. The shipment followed a thorough inspection by the border control personnel from the Israeli Ministry of Defense.
The Private Transporters Association of the Gaza Strip also documented the number of trucks making their way from the border region into the enclave, stating that by Wednesday, 91 trucks had entered Gaza, with the majority successfully reaching the governorates of Khan Younis and Deir Al Balah. These trucks are reportedly now supplying bakeries within the territory.
Details from the transport association indicated that five of the trucks were carrying flour and supplies for bakeries, 18 trucks from UNICEF were delivering food for children, and 67 trucks from the World Food Program included 60 loaded with flour and another carrying medical supplies for the Red Cross. It was highlighted that these trucks had been awaiting clearance at the border, pending approval from Israeli authorities amidst ongoing military operations and airstrikes.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Monday that a minimal amount of aid would be permitted into Gaza, motivated by concerns that the emergence of famine conditions might provoke a backlash among Israel's allies, potentially jeopardizing military and diplomatic support for the country.
As the situation unfolds, the humanitarian needs of the Gazan population remain dire, making the arrival of these supplies critical for survival.
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