Flow Of Aid Into Gaza Increasing
Ami Shakid said 50 trucks were allowed in yesterday and 100 had already crossed the border today at Kerem Shalom, situated at the far southern end of Gaza.
Israel hoped to get more aid into the Palestinian territory with each passing day, even as it kept up its punishing military campaign.
Shakid said aid trucks were also crossing into the Strip at the Erez crossing, in the north.
The trucks, carrying aid from the United Nations and private agencies, were met by Palestinian workers on other side who off-loaded the goods for local transportation.
Shakid said Israel was allowing some Palestinian businessmen to carry goods across the border themselves in the hope that it increased the likelihood of the supplies reaching the marketplace, and those in need, rather than Hamas.
Thus far, just the basics have been allowed in; sugar, flour, medical supplies and supplies for children.
As the days and weeks progress, Shakid said Israel will be better able to determine what is needed inside Gaza.