Israeli cabinet votes to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza amidst debate
- The Israeli Cabinet held a prolonged meeting focused on Gaza's future and humanitarian aid.
- A contentious vote led to the decision to establish additional Hamas-free aid zones.
- The ongoing military operations and differing perspectives on aid distribution indicate deep divisions within Israel's leadership.
In a significant political meeting, Israel's political-security Cabinet convened for over five hours on a Saturday night to discuss the future of Gaza following a protracted military operation. The meeting involved intense discussions with IDF Chief of Staff Lieut. Gen. Eyal Zamir concerning the humanitarian aid entry into Gaza, which has become a contentious issue amid ongoing hostilities. The Cabinet ultimately decided to establish additional aid dispersal zones free from Hamas' influence, aiming to alleviate the organization's control over civilians in the area. During the meeting, factions within the Cabinet expressed opposing views on the issue of aid, with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir voting against the expansion. Smotrich criticized the army's capacity to manage aid distribution given the ongoing military objectives, leading to a tense exchange between him and Chief of Staff Zamir. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intervened to de-escalate the situation, but the disagreement highlighted deep divisions within the leadership regarding the humanitarian approach in the conflict. Further complicating matters, Minister Ben-Gvir reiterated his belief that no aid should enter Gaza until all hostages are released and Hamas surrenders. He defended his position, stating that the full occupation of Gaza and the cessation of aid would serve as the only effective measures to resolve the ongoing conflict and ensure the return of hostages. This stance reflects a hardline approach being pushed by certain right-wing elements within the Cabinet, contrasting with those advocating for a more humanitarian response amid the crisis. In the aftermath of the lengthy meeting, discussions regarding the creation and management of the new humanitarian zones were deemed urgent, as they represent a critical shift in Israeli policy regarding Gaza. The zones aim to facilitate aid to civilians by circumventing Hamas' control, thereby addressing the urgent humanitarian needs while also attempting to contain the ongoing conflict. Details on how quickly these zones can be established remain uncertain, creating further tension within the Israeli leadership as external pressures continue to mount.