In a significant development, Israel has announced the approval of two humanitarian routes into Gaza, aiming to facilitate the influx of aid into the besieged territory.
The decision comes hours after US President Joe Biden’s conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, marking a pivotal shift in US policy towards leveraging aid to influence the conduct of the conflict in Gaza.
The Erez Gate in northern Gaza, dormant since the onset of the war, will be temporarily reopened, alongside the Ashdod Port, to allow humanitarian deliveries. Additionally, more aid from Jordan will be permitted to enter via the Kerem Shalom Crossing.
President Biden’s call with Netanyahu underscored the need for Israel to take concrete steps to prevent civilian harm and ensure the safety of aid workers if it wished to maintain US support.
The reopening of these corridors, specifically requested by Biden during the call, reflects a significant shift in US policy, signaling a departure from conventional diplomatic approaches.
The decision follows the tragic killing of seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen (WCK) in an Israeli strike in Gaza on Monday. The convoy they were traveling in was targeted by an Israeli airstrike shortly after unloading over 100 tonnes of food aid in Deir al-Balah.
Israel has expressed regret over the incident, terming it a tragic mistake, and has pledged a full investigation.
The US National Security Council welcomed Israel’s announced measures, emphasizing the importance of their swift implementation to safeguard innocent civilians and aid workers. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned of a change in US policy if Israel fails to demonstrate significant changes.
Former US President Donald Trump weighed in on the situation, urging Israel to conclude its Gaza operations swiftly to achieve peace and halt further casualties. Trump’s remarks, coupled with his prior criticisms of Biden’s stance on Israel, reflect the complexity of the situation and the evolving dynamics in the region.
As tensions escalate with Iran, Israel has ramped up its defensive measures, including blocking GPS signals and calling up reservists to bolster air defence units. The recent strike on Iran’s consulate building in Syria, allegedly carried out by Israel, has further heightened tensions, with Iran vowing retaliation.
The developments underscore the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the need for concerted international efforts to de-escalate tensions and bring about lasting peace in the region.
Ozioma Samuel-Ugwuezi
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