The United Nations and other humanitarian agencies say the volume of aid currently permitted into Gaza by Israel falls far short of what is required to sustain the population.

According to the UN, nine trucks carrying supplies—including baby food—were authorised to enter Gaza, but Israel reports that only five have actually crossed the border. As of Monday evening, the UN said the aid remained undistributed.

It has been nearly three months since Israel imposed a total blockade on the strip—halting deliveries of food, water, medical supplies and fuel—on March 2nd.

On Monday, Western donor nations issued a joint statement signed by the foreign ministers of 25 countries, calling on Israel to immediately allow the full resumption of humanitarian aid and to enable the UN and aid organisations to operate independently and impartially.

Separately, the leaders of Britain, France and Canada released a joint declaration condemning the escalation of military operations in Gaza. They urged Israel to permit the entry of humanitarian assistance, called for the release of hostages held by Hamas, and voiced opposition to the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

Al Jazeera.