Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved the urgent resumption of humanitarian aid supplies to the Gaza Strip without a vote in the security cabinet. The reason for this was the recommendations of the army and growing international pressure, primarily from the United States.
This was reported by The Times of Israel on 18 May. The decision was made at a meeting of the military-political security cabinet, but a vote, which is usually mandatory in such situations, was not held.
Arguments of the authorities: the army and the operation against Hamas
The Prime Minister’s Office said that the move was made “on the recommendation of the Israeli Defence For ces” and to ensure the continuity of the operation against Hamas.
“Israel will allow the import of a basic amount of food to avoid a hunger crisis that could threaten the success of the military campaign,” Netanyahu said.
International pressure and a new mechanism
The decision was made amid sharp criticism of Israel’s actions by the international community, including the United States, the United Nations and humanitarian organisations, due to restrictions on access to aid.
Previously , Israel had blocked the shipments, fearing that the resources could reach Hamas militants. Now, the aid will be temporarily coordinated by international organisations such as the UN World Food Programme (WFP) and World Central Kitchen.
By the end of May, a new mechanism for distributing aid, agreed upon with the participation of the United States and Israel, should be in place.
