"US Senators Criticize 'Arbitrary' Israeli Checks for Hampering Gaza Aid"
U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Jeff Merkley reported significant delays in aid delivery to Gaza due to stringent and seemingly arbitrary Israeli inspections at border crossings. Despite international pressure and a U.N. resolution, the flow of essential supplies remains far below pre-conflict levels, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The senators observed a warehouse full of rejected items, including essential medical equipment and called for a simplified aid process that balances security concerns with the urgent humanitarian needs of Gaza's population. Israeli officials acknowledge the delays but suggest that international agencies should improve their logistics, while aid workers face severe challenges in distributing the limited aid that does enter Gaza.