The recent disaster amid the distribution of humanitarian aid on Thursday, resulting in the killing of dozens of Gazan civilians and the accusations that they were killed in Israeli troop fire, has underscored its crucial role in Israel's military operations and efforts to bring about the release of Israeli captives held by Hamas. The significance of this aid extends beyond shaping Israel's global image, serving as an essential element in the ongoing military operations in Gaza and other regions.
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In light of this, the IDF spokesperson has, for the first time, announced a weekly schedule in Arabic, outlining a temporary halt of military actions for humanitarian reasons between 10:00-14:00 in various parts of the Gaza Strip. This decision, made by the Prime Minister and security chiefs, aims to accomplish three main goals.
The first goal is to facilitate the delivery and collection of humanitarian aid by residents, preventing any potential accusations against Israel for hindering this process. Additionally, these humanitarian breaks provide the population with short periods of respite and access medical help.
The second goal is to extend a gesture of goodwill towards the U.S. government and President Biden, who has shown dwindling patience, particularly with regard to the shortage of humanitarian aid. This week, Biden pointedly criticized Israel's "most conservative" government, primarily over their stance on the supply of aid, which is opposed by far right ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich. Meanwhile the U.S. has begun delivering humanitarian aid into the Strip with the White House stating that this aid will be ongoing.
The third and potentially most significant goal, although not explicitly admitted by the Israeli government, is to exhibit its respect for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan which begins next week, and to improve the chances of a hostage deal even before the holiday begins.
These three goals are of substantial merit, and it's about time the cabinet agreed on them.