EU, Israel Expand Gaza Aid and Worker Protection

The European Union and Israel have agreed to significantly expand humanitarian aid to Gaza, including opening additional crossing points and increasing daily deliveries of food, fuel, and supplies. The deal, facilitated by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, involves reopening aid routes through Egypt and Jordan, restoring fuel deliveries, and repairing critical infrastructure like water desalination and bakeries. Direct distribution of aid to Gaza's civilian population is emphasized, with new measures to enhance aid worker protection amid ongoing violence and malnutrition concerns. The agreement comes as ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas intensify, with the EU urging an immediate ceasefire and release of hostages. There is ongoing debate about which organizations will oversee the expanded aid, as the current Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has faced criticism for inadequate performance. Regional and international actors are still discussing funding and coordination for Gaza's long-term rehabilitation.