April 4, 2024 (EIRNS)—Israel’s security cabinet decided, according to the Prime Minister’s Office, to temporarily open up Ashdod Port for humanitarian deliveries, and to, at some point, open the Erez Crossing in the northern Gaza. As reported by the Times of Israel, Israel will also increase the amount of aid from Jordan moving through the Kerem Shalom crossing. “The increased aid will prevent a humanitarian crisis, and is critical for ensuring the continuation of the fighting and achieving the war aims,” says Netanyahu’s office.
White House National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson issued a statement welcoming initial measures announced by Israel today. She stated: “These steps, including a commitment to open the Ashdod port for the direct delivery of assistance into Gaza, to open the Erez Crossing for a new route for assistance to reach north Gaza, and to significantly increase deliveries from Jordan directly into Gaza, must now be fully and rapidly implemented. As the President said today on the call, U.S. policy with respect to Gaza will be determined by our assessment of Israel’s immediate action on these and other steps, including steps to protect innocent civilians and the safety of aid workers.”
