Israel to reopen Erez crossing into Gaza | First Thing

Move to increase humanitarian aid came hours after Biden told Netanyahu that US support would depend on Israel taking concrete action to protect civilians and aid workers. Plus: Microsoft says China will interfere in US and other elections using AI

• Don't already get First Thing in your inbox? Sign up here

Good morning.

The office of the Israeli prime minister has said that the Erez crossing, which lies in northern Gaza and for years served as the only passenger terminal for people to move in and out of the territory, will be temporarily reopened in an effort to increase the flow of humanitarian aid.

How did the US react to today's announcement? Antony Blinken welcomed the steps, but remained cautious. The US secretary of state said: These are positive developments but the real test is results."

What's going on at the UN regarding this conflict? The UN Human Rights Council was today debating whether to demand a halt in arms sales to Israel to prevent further violations of international humanitarian law and violations and abuses of human rights".