Israel’s security cabinet has given the green light to reopen the Erez border crossing, allowing for increased flow of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, as reported by Media source, citing an Israeli official.
The decision to reopen the border crossing comes after it was closed since the October 7 assault by Hamas. The Erez Crossing, also known as Beit Hanoun, serves as a vital link between Israel and the northern Gaza Strip.
In addition to Erez, the Israeli Port of Ashdod has also been approved by the cabinet to facilitate the transport of more aid into Gaza.
This move by Israel comes shortly after a conversation between US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during which they discussed the situation in Gaza. Biden expressed his concerns about strikes on humanitarian workers and the overall humanitarian situation in Gaza, deeming them “unacceptable.”
During the call, Biden urged Netanyahu to take “concrete and measurable steps” to address civilian harm and ensure the safety of aid workers. The White House emphasized that US policy towards Gaza would depend on Israel’s actions in response to these concerns.
The conflict in Gaza escalated following the October 7 attack by Hamas, where approximately 2,500 militants breached the border into Israel from the Gaza Strip, resulting in casualties and the seizure of hostages.
Israel has described its offensive in Gaza as targeting Hamas’ infrastructure with the goal of dismantling the entire terror group while endeavoring to minimize civilian casualties.
The decision to reopen the Erez border crossing and increase aid flow is seen as a step towards addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza amid the ongoing conflict.
