On Thursday evening, Israel's war cabinet announced new measures to allow more aid into Gaza, including the opening of the Erez border crossing.
The move came after a phone call between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Joe Biden, in which the American leader warned he would reverse his administration's position on the conflict unless Israel increased aid delivery and boosted protection for civilians and relief workers inside Gaza.
Israel to Open New Gaza Aid Routes
The Erez Crossing into the northern parts of the Gaza Strip will be opened for the first time since the October 7 Hamas attacks, and aid will be able to pass through Ashdod Port temporarily.
The Israelis have also said they intend to boost the aid from Jordan through the Kerem Shalom border.
A spokesman for the Israeli government said that this increased aid will prevent a humanitarian crisis and is necessary to ensure the continuation of the fighting and to achieve the nation's goals.
According to two U.S. officials, during Thursday's call, Biden demanded Netanyahu allow more trucks to bring humanitarian goods into Gaza.
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The White House said the President underscored that an immediate ceasefire is essential for stabilizing and improving the humanitarian situation and protecting innocent civilians.
Meanwhile, Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Israel that it "must meet this moment" and told reporters that if they do not see the changes they expect, U.S. policy will change.
The U.S. National Security Council praised Israel's plans to increase aid flowing into Gaza.
The opening date of these humanitarian routes remains unclear. However, U.S. officials have called for their full and rapid implementation.
Spokesperson Adrienne Watson warned that U.S. policy with respect to Gaza would be determined by their assessment of Israel's immediate action on these and other steps, including steps to protect relief workers.
Furthermore, she expressed hope that humanitarian assistance will significantly increase in the coming days and weeks, reaching civilians in dire need throughout Gaza.
