Gaza Aid Standoff

The UK paused trade negotiations with Israel yesterday, citing concerns over the recent escalation of the war in Gaza. The announcement came alongside new sanctions targeting Israeli settlers and organizations accused of attacking Palestinian communities in the West Bank.

The news followed an 11-week blockade, triggering severe supply shortages and famine warnings across Gaza. Israeli officials told aid agencies Sunday that around 100 trucks per day would be allowed in from Monday to Friday—roughly one-fifth of the prewar average. Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and militants, says more than 53,000 people have been killed since the conflict began in October 2023.

The announcement comes as Israel launched a new military operation in Gaza this week. Israel says the offensive is needed to dismantle Hamas, whose leader Israel is believed to have killed in a recent airstrike. Israel also aims to free the 58 remaining hostages, up to 23 of whom are believed still alive.