In a significant development on Friday, Israel has given its consent to the daily delivery of fuel to the strife-ridden Gaza Strip, marking the first such agreement since the conflict erupted on Oct. 7. The decision aims to address the critical fuel shortages that have led to the shutdown of hospitals in the region.
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| Current photo: The AID cargo from Egypt has left for Palestine with fuel that is needed for Asia. |
Responding to a request from the United States, Israel's war cabinet unanimously approved the daily entry of two diesel fuel tankers to support the UN's efforts in maintaining water and sewer infrastructure. The move is framed as a measure to "prevent the spread of epidemics" in Gaza.
An Israeli source explained that permitting fuel delivery, as long as it doesn't reach Hamas, provides Israel with increased flexibility on the international stage in its efforts to deal with the Hamas organization. The intention is to offer essential support to Gaza's water, sewage, and sanitary systems, with the primary goal of averting potential pandemics.
However, the decision has faced criticism from Israeli Minister of National Security, Eitam Ben Gvir, who argued that granting humanitarian aid to the enemy is meaningless until Red Cross visits are allowed to Israeli hostages.
The fuel shortage has triggered a catastrophic crisis in the Gaza Strip, home to approximately 2.3 million people. Since October 7, the Israeli military's intensified attacks in northern Gaza have resulted in widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, mosques, churches, and entire residential areas.
The latest figures from Palestinian authorities indicate a grim toll, with at least 11,500 Palestinians killed, including over 7,800 women and children, and more than 29,200 injured. In contrast, the Israeli death toll stands at around 1,200, according to official figures. The agreement to allow fuel delivery is seen as a crucial step in addressing the pressing humanitarian needs in the region amidst the ongoing conflict.