Israel to Allow Limited Food into Gaza After 10-Week Blockade Amid Intense Fighting

Israel to Allow Limited Food into Gaza Amid Fighting

After a 10-week blockade, Israel announced it will permit a "basic amount of food" to enter Gaza. This decision aims to prevent a famine as military operations intensify against Hamas.

Military Operations and Evacuation Orders

The announcement coincided with the start of "extensive ground operations" in Gaza, with evacuation orders issued for areas facing imminent attacks.

Strikes and Operation Gideon's Chariot

Strikes, including one on a hospital in northern Gaza, are part of Operation Gideon's Chariot. Israel asserts its goals are to free hostages and defeat Hamas. Khan Younis and northern towns like Beit Lahia and Jabalia refugee camp were also hit. The Hamas-run health ministry reports at least 67 deaths and 361 injuries in the last 24 hours.

Humanitarian Crisis

Reports from Khan Younis describe dire shortages. An attack on the al-Mawasi camp, a designated "safe zone," resulted in 22 deaths and 100 injuries. The Israeli army warned of a "powerful strike" on areas used for rocket launches, urging people to move west to al-Mawasi.

Hospital Conditions

Three public hospitals in North Gaza are now "out of action." IDF tanks reportedly fired at the Indonesian Hospital in Beit Lahia. The IDF claims to be fighting "terrorist infrastructure sites." Gaza's health ministry accuses Israel of besieging the hospital, cutting off access.

Ongoing Negotiations

Negotiations in Qatar continue, with Israel claiming to exhaust "every possibility" for a deal. Hamas insists on a comprehensive ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal in exchange for releasing all hostages and humanitarian aid. Israel seeks a temporary truce for hostage retrieval.

Impact on Healthcare

Mohammed Salha of al-Awda hospital in northern Gaza reported damage to his facility due to nearby bombing. Israeli strikes also hit the Nasser Medical Complex and European Hospital in Khan Younis. Israel alleges Hamas used the European Hospital as a command center, targeting a senior Hamas figure.

Casualties and Long-Term Effects

Since resuming strikes on March 18, thousands have died. Aid agencies warn of famine. The hostages' families group expressed concerns about the safety of hostages amid the escalating operations. The war began with Hamas-led attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023.