The Secretary reaffirmed the US opposition to a major military ground operation in Rafah, where over one million people have taken shelter.

He underscored the urgent need to protect civilians and aid workers in Gaza and urged the Minister to ensure assistance can move into Gaza and help address distribution challenges inside of Gaza.

The same day, the Israel’s military said that the 'Western Erez' crossing was opened in the area between Israel and the northern Gaza Strip to deliver humanitarian aid.

An official source in Egypt's North Sinai province said that since the current conflict broke out, Egypt has received a total of 623 planes carrying international aid to the strip.

The planes landed at Egypt's Arish International Airport carrying 22,000 tons of goods, medical supplies, and essential commodities donated by 50 countries and international organizations.