Israel has announced it will permit a "basic amount" of food aid into Gaza, ending a strict 10-week blockade that has pushed the territory to the brink of famine, according to a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on Sunday.
The decision comes as the Israeli military intensifies its ground operations across the Gaza Strip in its latest offensive, named "Operation Gideon's Chariot." According to the prime minister's office, the move was made following a recommendation by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to prevent a "starvation crisis" that could undermine military objectives.
"Israel will allow a basic quantity of food to be brought in for the population, to make certain no starvation crisis develops," the statement read. "Israel will also act to deny Hamas's ability to take control of the distribution of humanitarian assistance."
The blockade, which had cut off all food, fuel, and medical supplies since early March, has led to catastrophic conditions in Gaza. Aid agencies have repeatedly warned of looming famine among the population of 2.1 million, with graphic images of severely malnourished children intensifying international pressure on Israel.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot was among the latest international figures to call for Israel to allow the "immediate, massive and unhampered" delivery of humanitarian assistance to Gaza.
The announcement followed a fresh wave of Israeli airstrikes and ground operations. The Hamas-run health ministry reported at least 67 deaths and over 360 injuries in the past 24 hours. Dozens of areas across Gaza, including Khan Younis, Beit Lahia, and the Jabalia refugee camp, were hit overnight.
Gaza's civil defence agency said strikes also targeted the al-Mawasi camp—previously designated a "safe zone"—killing at least 22 people and injuring over 100. The Israeli army urged civilians to evacuate to al-Mawasi, stating, "We will strike any area used for rocket launches."
Gaza's already fragile healthcare system has been further devastated by the conflict. The health ministry confirmed three public hospitals in North Gaza are now "out of service" due to ongoing bombardment. The Indonesian Hospital in Beit Lahia was particularly affected, with medical staff reporting that IDF tanks surrounded the facility and opened fire. The hospital had 55 people inside, including doctors, nurses, and patients unable to flee.
Despite parallel ceasefire talks in Doha, progress remains stalled. According to Israeli media, Netanyahu's office said negotiators are "exhausting every possibility" for a deal. The proposed framework reportedly includes the release of all hostages, the exile of Hamas leaders, and full disarmament of the Gaza Strip.
A senior Hamas official told reporters that no breakthrough had been achieved, citing Israel's refusal to agree to a permanent ceasefire. Hamas has proposed releasing all hostages in exchange for a full Israeli withdrawal and substantial humanitarian aid—terms the Israeli side has yet to accept.
"Israel wants to retrieve its hostages in one or two batches in return for a temporary truce," the Hamas official said. "We reject any partial or temporary arrangements."
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, representing families of Israeli captives, warned that the renewed offensive endangers those still held in Gaza. "Testimonies from released hostages describe significantly worsened treatment following military strikes," the group said, citing cases of abuse, restraint, and starvation.
The war began with Hamas's 7 October 2023 attacks on southern Israel, which left approximately 1,200 dead and over 250 hostages taken. Israel's response has led to widespread devastation in Gaza, with over 53,000 Palestinians killed, according to local health authorities. Currently, an estimated 58 hostages remain in Gaza, with 23 believed to still be alive.
The United States has expressed growing concern over the humanitarian conditions. Senator Marco Rubio described the situation as "deeply troubling" and urged both sides to reach a sustainable ceasefire.
