Israeli officials reassured Secretary of State Antony Blinken that it is not their policy to isolate northern Gaza, despite reports from the United Nations that requested humanitarian assistance to the area continues to be denied. Blinken discussed the importance of increasing humanitarian aid during his meetings with Israeli officials, and Israel recognized the level of U.S. concern.
In response to a letter from Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin giving Israel 30 days to increase basic humanitarian aid to Gaza or face restrictions on U.S. military assistance, Israeli officials outlined the actions they have taken. While there has been initial progress in certain areas, Blinken emphasized that more action is needed, and that the U.S. expects to see sustained efforts within the 30-day timeframe.
On Monday, 114 trucks crossed into Gaza to deliver assistance, but it was unclear what actually reached the population. Israel assured Blinken that they are committed to the actions outlined in the Biden administration’s letter, and that they take those commitments seriously. The focus is on results, and the U.S. expects to see continued action to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Despite the discussions on humanitarian assistance, the readout issued by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office after the meeting with Blinken did not mention this topic. The U.S. continues to press for concrete actions from Israel to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
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