Context:

Approximately 90 truckloads of aid have entered Gaza after a two-month Israeli blockade, marking the first significant delivery of food to the region. This aid comes amidst a dire humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the blockade, which was initially imposed to pressure Hamas into surrendering and releasing hostages. Despite the recent influx, the aid is insufficient, prompting calls for more daily deliveries. The blockade had forced local bakeries to shut down, but some have resumed production, distributing bread for free with support from the World Food Program. Israeli officials aim to establish a new aid distribution system, bypassing the United Nations, as tensions continue with ongoing military operations in Gaza, including damage to the Al-Awda Hospital from Israeli attacks.

Dive Deeper:

• The United Nations reported that around 90 truckloads of aid have entered Gaza, marking the first major shipment allowed by Israel following a two-month blockade that worsened the humanitarian crisis. This blockade was justified by Israel as a means to compel Hamas to surrender and release hostages, although international aid groups dispute claims of aid diversion by Hamas.

• While aid is finally reaching Gaza, the quantity is deemed inadequate by aid officials, who emphasize the urgent need for more frequent deliveries to address widespread hunger and the humanitarian crisis. The World Food Program, among other agencies, has highlighted the slow pace of aid distribution on social media.

• The blockade had led to the closure of bakeries in Gaza due to the lack of food and fuel. However, with the arrival of aid, some bakeries have reopened and are distributing bread for free, supported by the World Food Program and other U.N. agencies, although safety concerns arise due to large crowds.

• Israel's decision to allow aid entry followed weeks of international pressure and ongoing negotiations with the United Nations. Initial delays were caused by disagreements over the aid distribution mechanism and the perilous routes stipulated by Israel for aid trucks, raising fears of looting.

• In parallel with aid efforts, Israeli military actions continue in Gaza, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicating plans to escalate the war unless Hamas meets Israel's conditions. Israel aims to create a 'sterile zone' in southern Gaza for Palestinians, free from Hamas influence, where humanitarian aid can be provided.

• The Al-Awda Hospital in northern Gaza has suffered repeated attacks by Israeli forces, causing extensive damage to medical facilities and supplies. The hospital director reported that the facility has been struck over 20 times and is currently unable to admit new patients due to depleted resources.