Israel has agreed to allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza, following weeks of pressure from the European Union and mounting criticism over deteriorating living conditions in the enclave. The move includes opening additional border crossings and enhancing distribution networks in coordination with international partners.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas confirmed the agreement in an interview on Thursday, saying it includes “very concrete terms,” such as the number of trucks, crossings, and delivery points for food and water.

Expanded Aid Routes, But No Formal Deal

While EU officials described the move as the outcome of “constructive dialogue,” Israeli authorities stated the decision came independently during a cabinet meeting. A military spokesperson confirmed that an access route into northern Gaza had already reopened.

Under the new plan, aid will flow through UN agencies and the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation—an Israeli- and U.S.-backed initiative—especially in southern areas still under Israeli control. Food will be distributed through bakeries and public kitchens, while repairs to critical infrastructure and water delivery are also prioritized.

UN officials, however, said they were not consulted in the negotiations and are awaiting clarification. “Only the UN has the experience and infrastructure to handle this crisis,” said Tamara Alrifai, a spokesperson for the agency handling Palestinian refugees.

Hostage Talks And Ceasefire Hinge On Aid Flow

The announcement comes as negotiations intensify over a potential U.S.-backed ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that any ceasefire would be contingent on the release of hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel.

Two people familiar with the talks said Israel and Hamas were close to agreeing on a humanitarian framework for a proposed 60-day truce, during which UN agencies would coordinate most aid deliveries.

Despite recent improvements, violence continues to disrupt distribution. Crowds have looted aid trucks, and deadly confrontations have erupted near Israeli-controlled aid hubs. Witnesses have reported that Israeli troops opened fire near some of the new access points—a claim Israeli officials deny, saying only “warning shots” were used.