Regulation

Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid in Gaza

Following the recent ceasefire, the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt remains closed by Israel, despite international appeals for increased aid delivery. Israeli military actions have resulted in casualties in northern Gaza.

The United Nations emphasizes the necessity for substantial aid delivery through all border crossings to address pressing humanitarian needs. Under the ceasefire agreement, Israel was expected to facilitate a significant surge in aid deliveries.

Challenges in Aid Distribution

The United Nations reported that aid convoys face difficulties reaching northern Gaza due to damaged infrastructure and the closure of routes such as Zikim and Beit Hanoon (Erez in Israel). The World Food Programme (WFP) has managed to deliver an average of 560 tonnes of food daily since the ceasefire commenced, but this amount remains insufficient.

UN humanitarian affairs chief Tom Fletcher stated that thousands of aid vehicles need to enter weekly to address malnutrition and infrastructure collapse.

WFP spokesperson Abeer Etefa noted that while aid delivery is progressing, access to Gaza City and the north remains challenging due to blocked routes.

Impact on Gaza

Humanitarian efforts are hindered by the continued presence of Israeli forces in approximately 53% of Gaza, as per the ceasefire agreement. The limited access to northern Gaza complicates aid distribution and efforts to alleviate the crisis.

Doctors Without Borders reported that many relief agencies have not resumed operations in the north, where healthcare services are severely disrupted.

Casualties and Ongoing Conflict

Israeli military actions continue to result in casualties in Gaza. A recent artillery strike caused multiple fatalities and injuries when it hit a bus carrying displaced individuals.

In southern Gaza, three Palestinians were injured following gunfire from Israeli forces, according to reports.

Hamas and Disarmament Discussions

The forthcoming phases of the ceasefire negotiations are expected to address the disarmament of Hamas and governance in Gaza. Hamas politburo member Mohammad Nazzal indicated the group’s intention to maintain security control during an interim period but did not commit to disarmament.

Discussions regarding disarmament involve multiple Palestinian factions and require a collective stance in future negotiations.