The Biden administration has expressed strong criticism towards Israel for not doing enough to improve the humanitarian conditions in Gaza. There is a 30-day deadline for Israeli officials to meet specific requirements, or they risk facing potential restrictions on military assistance. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller gave Israel a “fail” grade for not meeting the conditions for an improvement in aid deliveries to Gaza as outlined in a letter from Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.
While there are still nine days left until the deadline expires, the progress made so far has been deemed insufficient. The letter from Blinken and Austin stated that Israel must allow a minimum of 350 trucks a day to enter Gaza with essential supplies, but only an average of 71 trucks a day were entering Gaza by the end of October. This situation is concerning, especially given the urgent need for food and other supplies in Gaza.
The Biden administration has called out its close ally, Israel, on this issue, highlighting the importance of humanitarian assistance flowing into Gaza quickly. The head of UNICEF has warned that the Palestinian population in North Gaza, especially children, is at risk of dying from disease, famine, and ongoing bombardments. The U.S. is also looking into Israel’s decision to end an agreement facilitating the work of the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA.
In addition to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the U.S. is deeply concerned about the recent escalation in attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinians in the West Bank. These violent actions not only cause suffering for Palestinians but also threaten Israel’s security. It is crucial for the Israeli government to deter extremist settler violence and protect all communities in accordance with international obligations.
The U.S. has imposed sanctions against Israeli groups and individuals involved in violence against Palestinian civilians since the beginning of the year, and there may be more to come. It is essential for all parties involved to work towards a peaceful resolution and ensure the well-being of all individuals in the region.
