Israeli leaders assured Secretary of State Antony Blinken that it is not their policy to isolate northern Gaza. However, the United Nations reported that its requests to deliver humanitarian aid to the area have been denied. Blinken emphasized the importance of increasing aid to Gaza during his discussions with Israeli officials and set a deadline for Israel to increase humanitarian assistance or face restrictions on U.S. military aid.
Israeli officials outlined actions taken in response to Blinken’s letter, but the U.S. deemed them insufficient and called for more concrete steps to be taken. While some trucks carrying aid crossed into Gaza, it is not clear if the assistance reached the population. Israel promised to act on the commitments outlined in the letter and emphasized that results are what matter.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s office did not mention humanitarian assistance in the readout of the meeting with Blinken. Blinken noted the level of U.S. concern regarding the situation in Gaza, and emphasized the need for sustained action within the specified time frame. The U.N. continues to push for the delivery of life-saving supplies to hospitals and water facilities in northern Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian aid in the region.
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