The humanitarian crisis in southern Gaza escalated as aid trucks carrying essential supplies arrived amid Israel’s prolonged siege, which had entered its 12th day. The trucks, part of an agreement facilitated by US President Joe Biden, crossed through Gaza’s Rafah border point with Egypt, delivering aid to areas like Rafah and Khan Younis, where displaced Palestinians sought shelter from relentless air strikes.
However, the relief efforts fell short of expectations, as fuel supplies were not included. Palestinian officials expressed disappointment, emphasizing that excluding fuel puts patients’ lives at risk, as hospitals lack the necessary resources for medical interventions. The United Nations confirmed that the aid convoy, approved by Hamas, contained life-saving supplies distributed by the Palestinian Red Crescent. Israel, wary of aid falling into Hamas’s hands, warned against such outcomes.
Amid this crisis, Hamas declared that discussions about Israeli army captives would only occur after Israel ceased its aggression on Gaza. Despite Hamas releasing two American prisoners, Israel continued its attacks, further deepening the region’s distress.