IDF introduces daily 'tactical pauses' in Gaza for humanitarian aid

(Patria) - The Israeli army (IDF) says it will halt fighting in three areas of Gaza from 10 AM to 8 PM daily, starting today.

This comes amid a worsening humanitarian crisis where more than 100 people have died from malnutrition-related causes, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

Israel says it will halt fighting in three areas of Gaza to address the deteriorating humanitarian situation.

The IDF announced it would halt fighting in three areas, Muwasi, Deir al-Balah, and Gaza City, from 10 AM to 8 PM local time until further notice, starting today.

They added that they would establish safe routes to help the United Nations and humanitarian agencies deliver food and other supplies.

Israel's announcement of what it calls a "tactical pause" in fighting comes after it allowed aerial aid drops into Gaza to resume.

While the IDF reiterated claims that there is "no starvation" in Gaza, it said the air drop would include "seven pallets of aid containing flour, sugar, and canned food to be provided by international organizations".

Reports suggest aid has already been dropped into Gaza.

Also, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas could be concluded "at any moment".

"We are optimistic. We hope to have a ceasefire agreement every day where at least half of the hostages will be released, and at the end of that 60-day period, the remaining hostages too," Rubio said.