The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced modifications to its humanitarian aid protocols in Gaza on Saturday, responding to escalating international scrutiny as the malnutrition crisis deepens. In a statement, the IDF revealed that it had conducted airdrops of seven pallets containing essential food items such as flour, sugar, and canned goods, a move aimed at countering allegations of intentional starvation in the region. Furthermore, the IDF plans to implement a temporary humanitarian pause in civilian areas and designated corridors on Sunday morning to facilitate the delivery of aid, although specific details regarding the timing and locations of this pause have yet to be disclosed. The Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health reported that since the onset of the conflict on October 7, 2023, malnutrition has claimed the lives of 127 Palestinians, including 85 children, with five fatalities occurring in the past 24 hours. Humanitarian organizations have increasingly called for additional support, citing dwindling supplies and the dangers faced by aid workers, particularly in light of violent incidents near distribution centers that have resulted in numerous casualties. A volunteer from Médecins Sans Frontières highlighted the critical shortage of stabilization centers for malnutrition in Gaza, where overcrowding severely limits their capacity. Recent assessments by MSF indicated that 25% of children and pregnant or breastfeeding women screened in Gaza are malnourished, with severe cases among children under five having tripled in just two weeks. The Israeli government has refuted claims of restricting aid, asserting that Hamas diverts resources intended for civilians, a statement that Hamas has denied. Additionally, the IDF announced plans to supply electricity to a desalination plant, which is expected to significantly increase the available water supply.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has announced plans to carry out airdrops of humanitarian aid in Gaza as the region faces an escalating hunger crisis.
