How will the new aid routes into Gaza function at Erez crossing and Ashdod port?

Israel has announced plans to open a crossing to northern Gaza, where starvation is most acute, and to open its deep water port just north of Gaza. This decision comes after the killing of seven aid workers by the Israeli military, prompting the US to urge Israel to prevent civilian harm and humanitarian suffering.

The closure of the Erez crossing since the outbreak of war has intensified fears of famine in Gaza. Aid agencies and foreign officials have long been advocating for more crossings to be opened to alleviate hunger in the region. Israel has also agreed to allow more aid from Jordan to enter via the Kerem Shalom Crossing in southern Gaza.

Jan Egeland from the Norwegian Refugee Council sees this as a turning point, believing that aid will now flow freely and a protection scheme for civilians, including aid workers, will be put in place.

However, details on how these routes will operate and what aid will be permitted to enter Gaza have not yet been provided. The delivery of aid has been marred by deadly violence, with reports of shootings at Palestinians gathering to receive aid.

As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, countries have been exploring alternative routes to deliver aid, including air drops and maritime routes. Despite these efforts, the entry of trucks via land crossings has not met the urgent need for food in Gaza.

With the opening of new routes and the potential for increased aid delivery, there is hope that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza can be alleviated. However, challenges remain in ensuring the safe and effective distribution of aid to those in need.