Hamas-Israel agreement: Red Cross welcomes agreement and plans to significantly scale up relief efforts in Gaza

Belgian Red Cross-Flanders says it is pleased with the cease-fire agreement reached between Hamas and Israel. The organization stands ready to significantly scale up humanitarian aid in Gaza, Belgian Red Cross-Flanders reported.

According to the Red Cross, the need is highest in northern Gaza. In the short term, the organization will be able to send much more humanitarian aid to Gaza. The agreement will increase to 600 the number of trucks carrying relief supplies allowed into Gaza, and the organization is asking the parties involved to respect the agreements. 

The Red Cross also reiterates its call for the release of all hostages, along both sides, and for international colleagues to have access to the hostages. The organization says it stands ready to facilitate the return of the hostages.

"We welcome the agreement," said Sofie De Jaeger of Belgian Red Cross-Flanders. "There is an urgent need for medical supplies, food parcels and potable water. We stand ready to significantly scale up relief efforts in the occupied Palestinian territories together with our Red Cross partners on the ground. However, this will require the commitment and safeguards of all parties involved."