The ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, has resulted in a staggering death toll of 5,100 individuals.
In Israel, more than 1,400 people have tragically lost their lives since Hamas initiated its attack on Saturday, October 7. Meanwhile, in Gaza, the situation is even more dire, with over 3,700 people killed, as reported by the health ministry in the territory.
Efforts to provide essential supplies to Gaza are currently underway. United States President Joe Biden has brokered an agreement with Egypt to allow up to 20 lorries to access the territory.
Aid agencies, however, are sounding the alarm that a significantly larger number of lorries will be needed. The United Nations humanitarian chief, Martin Griffiths, has indicated that approximately 100 lorries daily are required to address the crisis effectively.
Additionally, United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak held a meeting with his Israeli counterpart, Benjamin Netanyahu, in Jerusalem. During the meeting, Prime Minister Sunak expressed strong support for Israel. Amidst the ongoing conflict, Israel continues its airstrikes in Gaza, leading to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of individuals from their homes. Gaza remains under a strict blockade, with Israel impeding the flow of water, electricity, food, and fuel across its border.
Egyptian state media has announced that the Rafah Crossing into Gaza will be briefly opened on Friday, allowing for the delivery of urgently needed aid. Over 100 trucks laden with aid have been queuing for several days on the Egyptian side of the border. The United Nations has issued a plea for immediate assistance to the civilians in Gaza who are facing dire circumstances.