Aid trucks carrying humanitarian supplies entered Gaza from Egypt on Sunday, according to Egyptian state-affiliated Al Qahera News TV, following months of international pressure and warnings of widespread starvation in the enclave. The delivery comes as Israel begins airdropping food and announces “humanitarian corridors” and “pauses” to facilitate aid distribution.
Dozens of trucks were seen heading toward the Karam Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) crossing in southern Gaza. The move follows reports of severe hunger among Gaza’s 2.2 million residents after Israel cut off supplies in March and later resumed limited deliveries with new restrictions. International relief groups say conditions remain dire, while Israel insists enough food has been allowed in and blames the United Nations for distribution delays.
Israel’s military confirmed the initial airdrops included seven pallets of flour, sugar, and canned goods coordinated with international organizations. Palestinian sources also reported aid drops in northern Gaza. However, the Israeli military emphasized combat operations continue despite these humanitarian measures.
Separately, an aid ship from Italy was intercepted by Israeli naval forces while attempting to enter Gaza’s maritime zone. Officials stated the vessel was diverted to Israeli shores and passengers were unharmed.
The UN has urged Israel to provide additional routes to expand humanitarian access, citing at least 127 deaths from malnutrition, including 85 children, since the war began nearly two years ago. The conflict erupted after the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and resulted in 251 hostages. Gaza health authorities report nearly 60,000 deaths from Israeli operations since then.
Israel also said it connected a power line to a desalination plant expected to supply water for about 900,000 residents daily.