In the midst of ongoing Israeli bombardments on the Gaza Strip, a second humanitarian convoy has made its way into the besieged enclave from Egypt. The convoy arrives as the death toll rises, with 55 people reported killed overnight.

Comprising a total of 17 trucks, the convoy follows the first one that entered the Gaza Strip a day earlier, which consisted of 20 trucks delivering much-needed medical aid, food, and water. The trucks in the second convoy are said to primarily contain crucial medical supplies desperately needed by hospitals in the area. However, concerns are mounting over the shortage of fuel, as no fuel has been reported to be included in the trucks.

Thomas White, from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), confirmed that while the aid trucks on television may appear to carry fuel, they are actually moving fuel internally between depots. He highlighted that no fuel is coming into Gaza, emphasizing the critical need for fuel to ensure the continuity of aid operations.

Although the recent aid deliveries are much-needed, aid agencies stress that it is only a fraction of what is necessary to address the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. The densely populated enclave, home to 2.3 million people, is facing shortages not only in medical supplies but also in food and drinking water. Israel's cut-off of electricity, fuel, and water supplies following the deadly attacks has exacerbated the crisis.

According to international agencies, an estimated 100 trucks per day are required to meet Gaza's needs. Cindy McCain, the executive director of the World Food Programme, stated the urgency of increasing aid deliveries and ensuring they reach the intended beneficiaries safely and consistently. She emphasized the importance of sustained support as the current aid efforts represent only a "drop in the ocean."

While aid deliveries attempt to address the pressing needs, the Israeli military continues its bombing campaign in Gaza and Rafah. Overnight air raids have resulted in the deaths of at least 55 people and the destruction of 30 homes, according to local authorities.

The United Nations has intensified its calls for a humanitarian ceasefire to facilitate the safe delivery of aid. UN Undersecretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief, Martin Griffiths, stressed the need for clarity on areas that should be protected from attacks by both sides. Griffiths also called for the establishment of an "inspection regime" for aid delivery and a mechanism to assess the evolving needs of Gaza's residents to ensure effective funding and relief efforts.

As the situation in Gaza remains critical, efforts to address the immense humanitarian crisis continue amidst the devastating Israeli bombardments and the urgent need for sustained aid operations.