In a response to mounting criticism over the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, Israel has allowed a significant increase in aid deliveries to the region. On Tuesday, the highest number of aid trucks since October 7 entered Gaza, according to Israel's agency that controls access to the area. A total of 468 trucks carrying humanitarian aid were inspected and transferred to Gaza, as reported by Israel's Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT).

Alongside the truck deliveries, Israel's military executed an airdrop of 303 packages, each containing thousands of meals, over Gaza on the same day. However, despite this effort, some humanitarian organizations have criticized airdrops as being more about photo opportunities rather than an effective way to deliver aid.

Before the conflict escalated, UN figures show that an average of 450 to 500 trucks entered Gaza daily with supplies. The previous highest number had been reached on Monday, with 419 trucks entering the Strip. However, concerns persist that Israel has not done enough to address the "famine-like conditions" in Gaza, according to USAID Administrator Samantha Power.

Power emphasized the urgency of delivering accessible food to the people in need, especially for vulnerable groups such as young children. She emphasized that malnutrition has resulted in deaths and diseases induced by malnutrition. Power acknowledged a recent increase in aid allowed by Israel, but stressed the importance of sustained efforts to address the dire situation.

The issue of Israel's potential incursion into Rafah, a southern Gaza city, remains uncertain. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant did not confirm a specific date for the operation during a phone call with US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin on Monday. The Israeli government is reportedly still formulating a plan, taking into consideration the protection of civilians.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken echoed Israel's silence on the matter, stating that the US has not been informed of any confirmed date for a Rafah incursion. However, he indicated that the Biden administration is expected to resume discussions with Israeli officials in the coming week.

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, has been actively seeking Hamas cooperation for a ceasefire and the release of hostages. Sullivan made these requests during a phone call with Qatar's prime minister, who has been mediating talks between the parties involved.

Despite recent statements made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding a set date for an invasion of Rafah, the United States has not been informed about any specific plans. The US has expressed concerns about the potential consequences of a large-scale ground invasion, urging Israel to consider alternative strategies against Hamas.

As the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues, the international community will closely monitor the delivery of aid to Gaza and the ongoing diplomatic efforts to bring about a resolution to the escalating crisis.