Food supplies have successfully entered northern Gaza for the first time through the Erez crossing, as reported by the World Food Programme. The UN food agency disclosed that three convoys crossed via Erez on April 14, 15, and 16, transporting 404 metric tonnes of food parcels and wheat flour in 25 trucks.
This milestone marks the initial instance of food supplies reaching north Gaza through the Erez crossing. The delivery comes after significant challenges faced by UN agencies in providing aid to the region, including Israeli restrictions, combat activities, and road blockages due to debris.
Earlier this month, Israel granted approval for the reopening of the Erez crossing, which had been closed since the October 7 Hamas attacks. Additionally, the use of the Ashdod Port for aid shipments was authorized. The decision to open the crossings followed a request from US President Joe Biden to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to facilitate the entry of more aid into Gaza.
The first aid shipment through the Ashdod Port was successfully transferred on Wednesday, marking a crucial step in addressing the worsening hunger crisis in Gaza. Despite the urgent need for aid, tonnes of supplies have been delayed at various land crossings. Humanitarian workers and government officials have raised concerns about what they perceive as a pattern of Israeli hindrance in the delivery of aid to Gaza.
