Israeli pause in fighting in 3 Gaza areas begins as concerns over hunger mount

The Israeli military has begun a “tactical pause” in fighting in three areas of Gaza to address a worsening humanitarian situation. Starting Sunday, the military will halt activity in Muwasi, Deir al-Balah, and Gaza City from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time daily. Secure routes will also be designated to help aid agencies deliver food and supplies. This decision follows months of warnings about famine due to Israeli aid restrictions. On Saturday, the military said it would resume airdrops into Gaza. These humanitarian steps will occur alongside ongoing military operations against Hamas. Meanwhile, health officials in Gaza said at least 16 people were killed in overnight Israeli strikes.