Israel: Israel announced the opening of a key crossing into northern Gaza for humanitarian aid, marking a significant development in the ongoing efforts to provide assistance to the region. The crossing, known as Zikim, has been made accessible to aid trucks supplied by the United Nations and other international organizations.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, COGAT, the Israeli defense ministry body overseeing civilian affairs in Palestinian territories, confirmed the opening of the Zikim crossing on the platform X. A spokesperson from COGAT indicated that the crossing would remain open permanently, similar to the Kerem Shalom crossing in southern Gaza, which has been the primary route for aid since the conflict's escalation in October 2023.
Humanitarian aid entering through Zikim will undergo standard Israeli security checks before being distributed by the UN. The World Food Programme highlighted challenges faced in late October due to the closure of the crossing, which had prevented cargo collection in northern Gaza since September 12.
The process of delivering aid to Gaza is further complicated by Israeli security measures and restrictions on numerous items. Additionally, the infrastructure damage and potential looting risks hinder the distribution of aid within the region.
The UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Aid emphasized the importance of direct crossings to the north, stating their necessity for timely aid delivery. Meanwhile, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification Initiative reported famine conditions in northern Gaza in August, a claim contested by COGAT.