The Biden administration announced that Israel has started following through on specific steps to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, steps that Washington required to ensure continued U.S. military support. The U.S. outlined these expectations in an October 13 letter, which conditioned Israel’s compliance on maintaining access to offensive weaponry. According to State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, one of the requested actions—a new U.S.-Israeli communication channel on civilian harm—will convene soon.

Among the aid efforts underway, Israel reopened the Erez Crossing to allow deliveries to northern Gaza. Additionally, a new crossing at Kissufim into central Gaza is expected to open soon, potentially enhancing access for humanitarian convoys. Miller further stated that Israel has permitted several new routes within Gaza for aid convoys to reach civilians more effectively, particularly in the north, where reports have surfaced of acute hunger due to prolonged blockades.

The U.S. has been pressing for Israel to increase aid deliveries and alleviate conditions in affected areas, particularly around Jabalya, where Israeli operations targeting Hamas reportedly impacted large civilian populations. Additionally, Israel is expanding the Muwasi coastal humanitarian zone inland to accommodate more people as winter nears.

In recent days, the number of aid trucks entering Gaza has modestly increased, with 229 trucks recorded on Tuesday. Although the volume still falls short of the U.S.-recommended 350-truck daily minimum, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin noted Israel’s “some progress” on the issue. U.S. officials are monitoring aid deliveries to confirm sustained support and access for Palestinians.

With a change in U.S. administration looming, it remains unclear how long the Biden administration can continue enforcing these conditions. However, officials emphasized the commitment to alleviating Gaza’s humanitarian crisis and reducing regional tensions before the transfer of power in January.