Israel reports delivery of 23,000 tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza in ten days

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has announced that over the past ten days, at least 23,000 tons of humanitarian aid have been delivered to the Gaza Strip, as part of ongoing efforts to improve living conditions in the enclave.

Speaking during a visit to Latvia, Herzog underscored Israel’s commitment to addressing the humanitarian needs of Gaza’s civilian population.

“Israel has significantly improved the humanitarian situation in Gaza over the past ten days,” Herzog said at a press conference, according to The Times of Israel. “In just the last 24 hours, an additional 30 tons of humanitarian assistance have been delivered.”

He further noted that within that 24-hour period, around 120 aid packages from various countries had been air-dropped into Gaza. Herzog also highlighted broader infrastructure efforts, stating that “a large-scale reorganisation of the water and electricity supply systems has been carried out,” while adding that the condition of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza remains a central concern. “Our hostages are starving and are in a very, very difficult situation,” he said.

The Israeli president reiterated that securing the release of hostages held by armed groups in Gaza remains a national priority. “If the hostages are released, it will be possible to move towards a ceasefire, which will improve the situation in Gaza,” Herzog stressed.

Earlier, Israeli authorities introduced a new mechanism designed to facilitate the gradual resumption of commercial imports into Gaza. According to a statement released by the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), the initiative will allow the flow of goods into the enclave through a select number of pre-approved private traders.

The system aims to reduce Gaza’s dependence on humanitarian aid, which is currently coordinated by the United Nations and other international organisations, while maintaining strict oversight. The traders approved for participation have undergone comprehensive security screenings and must meet defined security standards.

Under the new framework, essential items permitted for import include staple foods, baby formula, fresh produce, and personal hygiene products. All transactions are to be conducted through monitored bank transfers to ensure transparency and accountability.

Additionally, all shipments will be subject to thorough inspections prior to entry into Gaza, to ensure compliance and to prevent the introduction of prohibited materials. The phased reintroduction of private sector-led imports is seen as a step toward expanding access to essential goods while maintaining Israel’s security requirements.

By Tamilla Hasanova