Israel said on Tuesday it would allow the entry of certain goods into the Gaza Strip through local private merchants.
This is coming after the United Nations (UN) warned that famine is spreading in the enclave of Palestine.
“A mechanism was approved for the gradual and controlled renewal of the entry of goods through the private sector in Gaza,” said a statement from the office of the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT).
The Israeli Defence Ministry unit was responsible for civilian affairs in the occupied Palestinian territories.
The move was approved by the Israeli cabinet.
“As part of formulating this mechanism, a limited number of local merchants were approved, subject to specific criteria and security screening,” said the statement.
The goods to be allowed into Gaza include basic food products, baby food, fruits and vegetables, and hygiene supplies.
Payments for these goods will be conducted only via bank transfers and be subject to a monitoring mechanism, the COGAT said, adding that all goods will undergo thorough inspection.
Israel inaugurated its military offensive in Gaza in October 2023 and imposed a total blockade on March 2, this year.
The blockade was partially eased in May to allow a private company, backed by Israel and the U.S., to open controversial food distribution centers.
Aid convoys and airdrops by Arab and European countries resumed in late July, but UN experts warn that famine is still unfolding in the territory.
According to an update from the Gaza-based health authorities on Monday, the death toll from Israeli strikes since October 2023 has risen to 60,933. (Xinhua/NAN)
