Israeli Efforts to Halt Aid Deliveries at Gaza Border

Angry Israelis are crossing a field of stubble to bypass a police blockade in an attempt to disrupt shipments of food and supplies heading to Gaza.

For weeks, Israeli border officers had been allowing protesters to disrupt the critical aid convoys at Kerem Shalom, which is the only functioning border crossing with Gaza. However, at the end of last month, due to increasing international pressure and condemnation, authorities announced that they were deploying additional officers to regain control of the situation. Despite the area being declared a closed military zone, protesters are still showing up and attempting to outsmart the police.

Click play to see the scene.

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Israeli protesters try to get around a police blockade to disrupt aid intended for Gaza

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The "Tsav 9" movement is at the forefront of the protests. This group consists of demobilized reservists, families of hostages, and settlers. Their name, "Order 9," is a nod to the emergency mobilization notices that summon reservists.

The protesters are concerned that the aid being sent to Gaza may be supporting militants who are still holding their friends and relatives hostage. This fear stems from the deadly cross-border attacks carried out by Hamas five months ago, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people in Israel and the capture of 200 more. The protesters believe that blocking food and supplies from entering Gaza will put pressure on Hamas to release the hostages. A recent survey conducted by the Israel Democracy Institute revealed that two-thirds of Jewish Israelis agree with the protesters and do not support sending humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Click play to watch the protesters explain why they oppose sending food to Gaza.

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CNN speaks to protesters trying to block aid to Gaza

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CNN

The war in Gaza has led to the death of over 30,000 people, as reported by the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza. The remaining population is struggling to survive after being forced from their homes. The World Health Organization has warned that food and safe water are becoming scarce, leading to the spread of diseases and a rise in acute malnutrition, especially among children.

Unfortunately, aid has been slow to reach those in desperate need. Israel's restrictions on goods entering Gaza have hindered the delivery of essential supplies. According to a UN official, from February 24 to March 3, less than 1,000 trucks were able to enter the strip, falling far below the required daily minimum of 500 trucks.

Some countries are now using air drops to deliver aid, while the US, UK, and European Union are establishing a shipping route in the Mediterranean to reach Gaza directly. However, the UN emphasizes the importance of road access to prevent the situation from worsening.

The Israeli border police allowed aid trucks to pass through Kerem Shalom on Thursday, but only after rejecting numerous attempts by protesters throughout the day. As time passed, the officers became more forceful in dealing with the protesters.

Click play to watch the tense exchanges.

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Police tackle protesters trying to block aid trucks.

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CNN

A crucial time has arrived for aid delivery at Kerem Shalom as Gaza faces the threat of famine. Gaza's health authorities have reported that 17 children have already lost their lives due to malnutrition and dehydration.

Many more people are currently ill. At Kamal Adwan Hospital, the only pediatric facility in the north of Gaza that is still open, doctors are working hard to help 7-year-old Fadi al Sant who is suffering from severe dehydration and malnutrition. Watch the video to see Fadi with his mother.

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Doctors treat 7-year-old suffering from dehydration and malnutrition

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CNN

• Here’s how to help humanitarian efforts in Israel and Gaza.

Editor's P/S:

The article vividly portrays the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza, exposing the complex interplay of humanitarian concerns and political tensions. The protesters' fears and the desperate need for aid in Gaza highlight the devastating consequences of the war and the urgency of finding a peaceful resolution.

The protesters' belief that blocking aid will pressure Hamas to release hostages raises ethical questions about the use of collective punishment. However, the article also sheds light on the legitimate concerns of the protesters, who have lost loved ones in the conflict. The article underscores the importance of addressing the underlying causes of the conflict, such as the occupation of Palestinian territories, to prevent further suffering and loss of life. and the humanitarian needs of Gaza. The international community must play a more active role in facilitating dialogue and finding a lasting solution to this tragic conflict.