The United Arab Emirates has announced an agreement with Israel to allow the delivery of urgent humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, in a move aimed at alleviating the suffering of civilians amid the worsening humanitarian crisis in the enclave.

The agreement was reached during a phone call between Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs and Vice President of the Council of Ministers, and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, according to the UAE’s official news agency.

The agency reported that the first phase of the Emirati aid will address food needs for approximately 15,000 civilians, and will also include essential supplies for bakeries and basic infant care items.

During the call, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed emphasized the importance of ensuring that humanitarian, relief, and medical assistance reaches the Palestinian people in Gaza promptly, safely, and without any obstacles, reaffirming the UAE’s humanitarian commitment.

The two ministers also discussed regional and international efforts to revive the ceasefire agreement, achieve a comprehensive halt to hostilities, and work towards the release of hostages.

This development comes amid growing warnings of a deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza, with increasing calls from the international community for intensified humanitarian response and protection of civilians.