Israel has rejected allegations from European nations accusing it of restricting humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, emphasizing its commitment to facilitating aid delivery despite ongoing security challenges. This comes as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) intensify military operations in northern Gaza while issuing fresh evacuation orders for southern regions.
International Criticism Over Aid Access
The UK, France, and Germany recently called on Israel to address what UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy termed “the unacceptable humanitarian situation in Gaza.” In response, Israel’s Foreign Ministry condemned the letter for failing to acknowledge the October 7 Hamas attack and the ongoing threats to Israeli civilians.
“Israel is facilitating the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza and does not impose any restrictions on the quantity of aid,” said ministry spokesman Oren Marmorstein. He further blamed Hamas for obstructing aid distribution through looting, which has prevented international organizations from effectively delivering resources to civilians.
Aid Distribution Challenges
According to the Defense Ministry’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), over 780 trucks loaded with humanitarian supplies were awaiting pickup on the Gazan side of the Kerem Shalom crossing as of Tuesday. However, only 43 trucks were collected on Monday due to what COGAT described as logistical failures and lawlessness.
The United Nations had earlier halted aid operations through Kerem Shalom, citing looting by armed groups. International agencies have also pointed to fuel shortages, damaged infrastructure, and alleged restrictions imposed by Israeli military authorities as key barriers to aid distribution.
Despite these issues, COGAT reported that 138 trucks carrying essential supplies—including food, medical equipment, and water purification systems—entered Gaza on Monday. Additionally, five ambulances donated by the UAE were delivered, adding to the 120 ambulances facilitated by Israel since the conflict began.
Escalating Military Operations
On the ground, the IDF has intensified operations in Gaza’s north, including airstrikes and ground raids in Jabalia, Beit Lahiya, and Beit Hanoun. These operations have reportedly killed hundreds of Hamas operatives, with the military claiming to have eliminated at least seven individuals involved in the October 7 attacks.
In central Gaza, artillery strikes by the IDF’s 990th Reserve Artillery Regiment targeted Hamas operatives and infrastructure. The army has also split the Gaza Strip into two operational zones, conducting systematic raids in the Netzarim Corridor.
Evacuation Orders in Southern Gaza
The IDF issued evacuation orders on Tuesday for parts of southern Gaza, specifically northern districts of Khan Younis. This followed a rocket launched by Hamas from the area, intercepted by Israeli air defenses.
“Terror organizations are once again firing rockets at the State of Israel from your area,” said IDF spokesperson Col. Avichay Adraee in an online statement, urging residents to evacuate to designated humanitarian zones. The warning triggered a mass exodus of families seeking safety.
The Human Toll and Ceasefire Efforts
The conflict, now in its 14th month, has taken a significant toll. Palestinian health officials report ongoing casualties from Israeli strikes, although these claims, made under Hamas’s governance, remain unverified.
Efforts to secure a ceasefire and facilitate hostage releases have resumed, with international mediators working to bridge gaps. However, U.S. National Security Adviser John Kirby emphasized that Hamas remains the main obstacle to progress.
“They must recognize their isolation and weakened position,” Kirby said. “It’s time for Hamas to come to the table.”
As the humanitarian crisis worsens, the international community continues to call for increased aid access and an end to hostilities, while Israel remains steadfast in its campaign to dismantle Hamas’s infrastructure and secure the release of hostages.