Defense News 

Israel & Gaza

Israel has announced it will permit the temporary delivery of humanitarian aid to the northern Gaza Strip following pressure from US President Joe Biden. The aid will be allowed through Ashdod port and the Erez checkpoint. The move comes after a strike by Israel killed seven employees of US-based charity World Central Kitchen, prompting condemnation from the US president.

In a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Biden criticized the strike as "unacceptable" and called for an immediate ceasefire. He emphasized the need for Israel to take concrete steps to address civilian harm and ensure the safety of aid workers.

Following Israel's announcement, the White House welcomed the decision to increase aid flow to Gaza and urged rapid implementation. Gaza has been under Israeli blockade since the start of the conflict, with the UN warning of dire humanitarian consequences.

The conflict, which began with a Hamas attack on October 7, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. Israel claims the lives of 1,170 Israelis and foreigners, mostly civilians, while Gaza's health ministry reports over 33,000 deaths, primarily women and children.

Additionally, Israel will allow increased Jordanian aid through the Kerem Shalom border crossing in southern Israel. The move aims to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza amid escalating tensions in the region.