Israel Agrees to Brief Ceasefire in Gaza for Polio Vaccination Campaign

Following pressure from global health organizations, Israel has agreed to a brief ceasefire in Gaza to enable a polio vaccination campaign. The decision comes after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reportedly urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to allow the vaccination effort during their meeting last week. The World Health Organization and other health groups had expressed concerns about the spread of polio in Gaza, highlighting the risk to both Israeli soldiers and captives. Meanwhile, the World Food Programme has temporarily suspended operations in Gaza after one of its clearly marked vehicles was fired upon by Israeli forces. The UN agency has filed a formal complaint with Israeli authorities, but has yet to receive a response. Israeli officials are currently investigating the incident, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian efforts and the protection of aid workers.