The Israeli military has announced a temporary suspension of hostilities in three Gaza towns for 10 hours a day and will open safe routes for the delivery of aid to Palestinians in need.
The measures are aimed at addressing rising hunger in the region as Israel faces a wave of international criticism over its actions during the 21-month conflict.
The military said it would begin a “tactical pause” in the cities of Gaza, Deir al-Balah and Muwasi, which have large populations, in order to “increase the volume of humanitarian aid” reaching the region.
The pause will be in effect daily from 10:00 to 20:00 local time until further notice, starting Sunday.
The military also reported airdrops of humanitarian aid into Gaza, including flour, sugar and canned goods.
Food security experts have been warning for months of the risk of famine in the Gaza Strip, where Israel has restricted humanitarian supplies, claiming Hamas is siphoning off food to consolidate its grip on power.
Recent images from Gaza showing malnourished children have sparked global criticism of Israel, including calls from its closest allies to end the war and the humanitarian catastrophe caused by the conflict.
Israel said the new steps come amid an ongoing offensive against Hamas in other areas.
The localized pause in fighting came days after efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas appeared to be in jeopardy.
On Friday, Israel and the United States withdrew their negotiators, blaming Hamas, with Israel saying it was considering “alternative options” for ceasefire discussions with the group.
After the last truce ended in March, Israel completely cut off supplies of food, medicine, fuel and other goods to Gaza for two and a half months, saying it was doing so to pressure Hamas to release the hostages.
Under international pressure, Israel eased its blockade somewhat in May.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
