JERUSALEM: Israel is under pressure to present measures aimed at increasing aid flow into the besieged Gaza Strip as hunger spreads after months of conflict. Non-profit groups have taken the state to court, accusing authorities of restricting relief item entry and failing in their obligations as an occupying power to provide basic necessities.
The Supreme Court ordered Israel to update on steps taken to boost humanitarian goods flow by Wednesday. Miriam Marmur of rights group Gisha highlighted that despite Israel’s claims, aid delivery is hindered by policy choices.
UN and humanitarian officials have also criticized restrictions, with food convoys facing three times more denials than other humanitarian supplies, particularly impacting famine-stricken areas.
Israel’s blockade policies, predating the current conflict, hinder essential items like solar panels and generators. While recent signals suggest reopening the Erez crossing, aid groups remain cautious, citing past challenges.
Some countries have resorted to airdropping aid, a method deemed risky and inefficient. Turkey’s request to join aid drops was denied by Israel.
The conflict, sparked by an October 7 Hamas attack, has claimed thousands of lives, mostly civilians. Israel’s retaliatory offensive has resulted over 33,000 casualties in Gaza, mainly women and children.
