US special envoy Steve Witkoff is set to visit Gaza on Friday to assess the dire humanitarian situation and inspect food distribution sites, as confirmed by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. Accompanied by US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, Witkoff aims to secure a plan to enhance food delivery and engage with local Gazans to understand the challenges they face.

The visit comes amid reports from Gaza's health ministry that 111 people have been killed in the last 24 hours, with 91 of these deaths occurring as individuals sought aid. A particularly tragic incident at the Zikim crossing resulted in over 50 deaths and 400 injuries as people gathered for food distribution. The Israeli military has stated that only warning shots were fired, denying awareness of any casualties.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is deepening, with the UN and other agencies warning of a looming famine. Over 150 deaths from malnutrition have been reported, highlighting the severe food insecurity affecting the 2.1 million residents. Despite Israel's claims of unrestricted aid access, international bodies accuse it of contributing to the crisis through blockades.

Efforts to address the crisis include Cyprus's announcement of plans to reopen a sea route for aid delivery, which had previously facilitated the transport of 2,200 tonnes of aid. This move is part of broader international calls for a ceasefire and improved humanitarian access, as the situation in Gaza becomes increasingly untenable.