Israeli leaders assured Secretary of State Antony Blinken that it is not their policy to isolate northern Gaza, despite the United Nations reporting that requests to bring humanitarian aid to the area have been denied. The U.N. has been trying to deliver essential supplies to Gaza, such as blood, medications, food, and fuel, but has been facing obstacles.
Blinken raised the issue of increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza during his discussions with Israeli officials, who acknowledged the level of U.S. concern. In response to a letter from Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Israel has been given 30 days to enhance basic humanitarian aid to Gaza or risk restrictions on U.S. military assistance.
While Israeli officials outlined the actions they have taken so far in response to the letter, Blinken emphasized that more needs to be done. Despite 114 trucks crossing into Gaza with assistance, it is unclear if the aid reached the population. Israel assured Blinken that they are committed to fulfilling the concrete actions outlined by the U.S. administration but stressed that results matter.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s office did not mention humanitarian assistance in the readout issued after the meeting with Blinken. The U.S. expects to see sustained action within 30 days to ensure that the humanitarian needs of Gaza are met.
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