Gaza – The Israeli military has begun airdropping humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, following weeks of growing international concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in the enclave. The move comes days after the United Nations and several aid organizations warned of mass starvation among Palestinians in the war-torn territory.

Israel said Saturday it had begun airdrops of aid after months of accusations that it was restricting aid supplies to the war-devastated territory. The Israeli military said “humanitarian corridors” would allow United Nations aid trucks to deliver food and other vital supplies to Gaza residents.

Meanwhile, Egyptian aid trucks began entering Gaza through the Rafah border crossing today. The convoys carried essential supplies including food and medical aid, offering a lifeline to thousands of Palestinians who have been cut off from regular access to necessities.

The renewed efforts come after months of accusations that Israel had been restricting the flow of aid into Gaza, particularly following the full blockade imposed in March. While some supplies resumed in May under stricter controls, aid agencies reported severe shortages and logistical barriers.

According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, dozens of deaths due to malnutrition have been recorded in recent weeks. The situation has prompted widespread calls for immediate international intervention to prevent further loss of life.

However, Hamas dismissed the airdrops as “symbolic”, accusing Israel of trying to “whitewash its image before the world.”

Israel’s announcement of aid corridors and military pauses is being closely monitored by global observers as a potential shift in its Gaza strategy. However, aid groups stress that sustained and unimpeded access is essential to preventing a full-scale humanitarian catastrophe.

The international community is urging all sides to prioritise civilian lives and ensure that food, water, and medical assistance reach those most in need without delay.