“basic” amount of aid into Gaza after nearly three months of an Israeli blockade “wholly inadequate.” The statement also calls on Israel to stop its “egregious” new military actions in Gaza and to immediately allow in humanitarian aid. The statement came shortly after Israel and the United Nations said the first few trucks of aid had entered Gaza – which the UN humanitarian chief described as a “drop in the ocean of what is urgently needed.” The three countries’ statement said they have always supported Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorism but called the escalation disproportionate.

The statement marked the first significant threat from the UK and France since the start of the 19-month war. The first few aid trucks entered Gaza following nearly three months of Israel’s complete blockade of food, medicine and other supplies, Israel and the United Nations said Monday, as Israel acknowledged pressure from allies. Five trucks carrying baby food and other desperately needed aid entered the territory of over two million Palestinians via the Kerem Shalom crossing, according to the Israeli defence body in charge of coordinating aid to Gaza, COGAT. The UN called it a “welcome development” but said far more aid is needed. Food security experts last week warned of famine in Gaza. During the latest ceasefire that Israel ended in March, some 600 aid trucks entered Gaza each day.  Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his decision to resume limited, “basic” aid to Gaza came after allies said they couldn’t support Israel’s renewed military offensive if there are “images of hunger” coming from the Palestinian territory. (Jamaica Gleaner)