In the midst of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Middle East, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has given the green light for Egypt to provide limited humanitarian assistance to the Gaza Strip. This decision comes at a time when the explosion at Gaza City's al-Ahli Hospital has sparked outrage across the Middle East.

Israel had cut off all supplies to Gaza following a series of attacks by Hamas militants in southern Israel on October 7. As a result, essential provisions have dwindled, leaving many families in Gaza with just one meal a day and access to contaminated water.

Netanyahu's office stated that this decision was made in response to a request from U.S. President Joe Biden. It emphasized that Israel would not obstruct the delivery of food, water, or medical supplies from Egypt, provided that these aid efforts are directed toward civilians in the southern region of the Gaza Strip and do not benefit Hamas militants. Notably, the statement did not address the urgent need for fuel, which is crucial for maintaining power in hospitals.

Egypt's president has also agreed to open the border crossing and permit the entry of an initial convoy of 20 trucks carrying humanitarian aid. The distribution of aid is expected to commence on Friday at the earliest.

President Biden held discussions with his Egyptian counterpart, Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, on Wednesday, focusing on ongoing coordination to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and establishing mechanisms to ensure that this assistance benefits the civilian population.

President Biden stated, "If Hamas confiscates the aid or hinders its delivery, we will cease sending humanitarian aid to Hamas. That's the commitment I've made." He further noted that the initial 20 trucks are just the beginning, with approximately 150 trucks waiting to cross into Gaza. The decision to allow the remaining aid to pass through will depend on how the situation unfolds.

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