The United States conducted the first in a series of humanitarian airdrops of food into Gaza, addressing concerns from aid agencies about a growing humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian enclave due to the absence of a ceasefire deal.
Three C-130 US military planes delivered over 38,000 meals into Gaza, where the United Nations reported that at least 576,000 people are on the brink of famine. Videos shared on social media showed the airdropped aid boxes, with Jordanian forces also participating in the operation.
The White House affirmed that these airdrops would continue as part of a sustained effort, with Israel expressing support for them. However, critics argue that airdrops are less effective than aid deliveries by truck and raise concerns about ensuring supplies do not reach militants.
An Israeli official in Washington, speaking anonymously, stated that Israel welcomed the humanitarian airdrops coordinated with them.
Meanwhile, discussions in Egypt were scheduled to resume on Sunday, with a senior US official stating that a framework for a six-week ceasefire deal was in place, contingent upon Hamas agreeing to release hostages.
US Vice President Kamala Harris is set to meet with Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz at the White House on Monday.
In Jerusalem, thousands of Israelis marched to demand the release of approximately 134 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, led by families affected by Hamas' actions on October 7.
Despite ceasefire efforts, strikes continued in Gaza, resulting in casualties. The health ministry reported fatalities, including civilians, due to Israeli airstrikes. The Israeli military stated that their strikes targeted militants.
As the conflict persists, concerns mount over the welfare of civilians in Gaza, with reports of deaths and critical shortages of food and medical supplies. US President Joe Biden announced plans for the airdrop following a deadly incident at an aid distribution site.
Ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas are ongoing through mediators like Egypt and Qatar, with both sides expected to resume indirect talks in Cairo. However, Israel's participation may be contingent upon receiving information about the hostages held by Hamas.
