Approximately thirty trucks entered the Gaza Strip on Sunday, representing the largest aid convoy to the region since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict on October 7. Simultaneously, near the Lebanese border, Hezbollah reported successfully downing an Israeli drone using a surface-to-air missile, marking the first such incident acknowledged by the group.
Amid mounting civilian casualties, the United States has called on Israel to adhere to international law in its defensive actions and prioritize the protection of civilians. President Joe Biden emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian assistance during a phone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.
Israel’s self-declared “second stage” of the three-week war against Hamas militants, allegedly supported by Iran, has been shrouded in secrecy due to nighttime operations and a Palestinian telecommunications blackout. However, some limited restoration of phone and internet services was observed on Sunday.
As Israel intensifies its military actions, global demands for a “humanitarian pause” to facilitate aid deliveries to the region have grown stronger. Ongoing negotiations mediated by Qatar between Israel and Hamas reportedly encompass discussions on potential hostage releases.
According to an anonymous source familiar with the talks, Hamas is proposing a five-day halt to Israeli operations to allow humanitarian aid and fuel into the besieged Gaza Strip, contingent on the release of all civilian hostages currently held by the group.
