Israel must ensure the safety of its citizens and humanitarian workers in Gaza or face policy shifts, according to the Biden administration.
During a phone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Joe Biden emphasized the need for Israel to take immediate and quantifiable action to end civilian casualties and suffering and ensure the safety of relief workers. According to the White House’s transcript of the discussion, the United States’ stance toward Gaza would depend on how quickly Israel takes these measures.
As Israel’s battle in Gaza against Hamas terrorists enters its sixth month, the political tensions and frustrations between Biden and Netanyahu are rising, prompting this warning. Over 1,200 people were killed, and 253 more were taken captive as Hamas launched an air, land, and sea incursion into southern Israel from Gaza on October 7, 2023. There have been over 32,000 fatalities and over 74,000 injuries among Palestinians in Gaza since October 7.
After its convoy was attacked during the airstrikes as it was leaving a facility in central Gaza, World Central Kitchen has demanded an impartial inquiry into the incident.
According to Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, who spoke with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, a thorough and transparent investigation is being conducted, and partners will be informed of the results. Kirby said that Biden spoke with Netanyahu about his worries about the World Central Kitchen attacks, but the two leaders avoided discussing the strikes or their specifics in great detail. In addition to Biden and Netanyahu, Vice President Kamala Harris, secretary of State Antony Blinken, and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan were all reached simultaneously.
Biden reportedly reminded Netanyahu, according to Blinken, that the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the attacks that killed relief workers was “unacceptable.” Biden underscored throughout their talk the urgent necessity for a ceasefire agreement to free detainees and enable additional humanitarian supplies to reach the Gaza Strip.
While discussing Iranian threats against Israel, Biden reaffirmed America’s unwavering support for Israel.
