Did media pressure and international outrage force Israel to slightly loosen its blockade on the Gaza Strip? The timing leaves little doubt. As footage of Gaza's children, their bodies emaciated by malnutrition, circulates around the world, shocking much of international public opinion and prompting a wave of governmental condemnation, the Israeli army announced on Sunday, July 27, the implementation of daily "tactical pauses," accompanied by humanitarian airdrops. Israel presented these measures as the result of discussions with the United Nations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), intended to "improve the humanitarian response" in the Palestinian enclave, where famine and shortages have been the result of a deliberate Israeli policy.

According to statements from the Israeli army, these "truces," which apply to three areas – Deir al-Balah, Al-Mawasi, and Gaza City – are expected to last each day from 10 am to 8 pm to facilitate the delivery and distribution of aid. In parallel, "secure humanitarian corridors" are theoretically open from 6 am to 11 pm for humanitarian convoys. "There are secure routes. There have always been, but today it's official. There will be no more excuses," said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

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