A line of trucks carrying sugar, toilet paper and other vital supplies was observed by a China Media Group (CMG) reporter on Monday snaking away from the Kerem Shalom crossing, the primary gateway to Gaza in the region's southeastern part, following the start of a truce which took effect on Oct 10, with Israel promising unimpeded humanitarian access.
Yet, despite the apparent flow, a complex and lengthy inspection process means aid is trickling in far too slowly to meet the immense needs of the war-torn enclave.
According to footage filmed by the CMG reporter, the route to this critical transit point passes through Israel's Re'im military base, where Israeli military vehicles can be seen.
Under the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas -- which includes the withdrawal of Israeli troops and the release of detainees -- increasing humanitarian aid is a key requirement. The Kerem Shalom crossing, which reopened on May 8 under international pressure after being closed for security reasons, now serves as the main channel for relief supplies.
At a waiting area for aid trucks, Israeli military and police forces have withdrawn, but aid vehicles are still subject to security checks. While media access to the inspection area is restricted, sources confirm that procedures remain stringent. Each truck must undergo multiple rounds of unloading and examination, making the passage process slow and arduous.
According to a UN plan, 170,000 tons of food, medicine and other aid should enter Gaza within 60 days of the truce. Achieving this would require hundreds of additional trucks daily, along with a weekly supply of at least 1.9 million liters of fuel. However, the Hamas-run government media office in Gaza reported that by October 12, only 173 aid trucks had entered, including three with gas and six with diesel, far below the required volume.
Truce takes effect in Gaza, aid flow under scrutiny at Kerem Shalom Crossing
Truce takes effect in Gaza, aid flow under scrutiny at Kerem Shalom Crossing
