UN confirms release of hostages and entry of more aid to Gaza

The text reported the sending of 200 trucks from Nitzana to the Rafah crossing while another 137 of goods were unloaded from the reception point of the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees (Unrwa).

That is the largest humanitarian convoy received since October 7, when the current conflict between Hamas and Israel began, according to OCHA.

During the day, in addition, 129 thousand liters of fuel and four gasoline trucks crossed into the enclave while hundreds of thousands of people received assistance with food, water, medical supplies and other essential humanitarian items.

OCHA assured that 21 critical patients were evacuated in a large-scale medical operation from northern Gaza.

UN humanitarian teams and their partners will continue to intensify humanitarian operations to meet the needs of the population throughout the Strip in the coming days, the text states.

This Friday, OCHA spokesman Jens Laerke said the organization hopes the agreement will bring respite to the people of Gaza and Israel and some relief to the freed hostages and detainees and their families.

Aid workers hope that the pause will be respected, allowed to reach people in need and, in the long term, expanded into a true humanitarian ceasefire, he added.

The spokesperson also highlighted the pressing need to access northern Gaza where the damage and humanitarian needs are greatest.

That area has long been isolated from the south of the enclave and from aid by Israeli military operations.