Tel Aviv

Israel would allow aid into Gaza through Egypt, announced Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on Wednesday (Oct 18). The statement said that only items like "food, water and medicine" would be permitted into the besieged Palestinian enclave.

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"In light of (US) President (Joe) Biden's demand, Israel would not foil the supply of humanitarian aid via Egypt," the prime minister's office said, announcing a cabinet decision.

The statement by the PM's office further noted that aid to civilians in the southern Gaza Strip would be allowed "so long as these supplies do not reach Hamas" which rules Gaza.

"Israel will not allow any humanitarian aid from its territory to the Gaza Strip as long as our hostages are not returned," it added.

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Also read: Jordan, Egypt refuse to accept Palestinian refugees as Israel ramps up strikes

It is pertinent to note that while Israel said that it would allow aid via Egypt, it also claimed that supplies would not come from its own territory until Hamas released the hostages it took in an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, which meandered into a war.

"Israel demands Red Cross visits with our captives and is working to mobilise broad international support for this demand," the statement added. 

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US President Joe Biden had urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to allow aid for Gaza during his visit to Tel Aviv.

Seeking 'unprecedented' aid for Israel this week, says Biden

Biden, during a press briefing in Tel Aviv on Wednesday (Oct 18), said that he would ask Congress for "unprecedented" aid for Israel.

The US president said that he was committed to the promise made by his country over a decade ago to make sure his ally has a "qualitative edge" over foes on the battleground.

"We're going to make sure you have what you need to protect your people, to defend your nation," Biden said as he closed a brief solidarity visit.

"Later this week, I'm going to ask the United States Congress for an unprecedented support package for Israel's defence," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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