The Biden administration has issued a strong warning to Israel regarding the need to boost humanitarian aid entering Gaza within a 30-day timeframe. If Israel fails to comply, it risks jeopardizing its access to funding for U.S. military weapons.
In a letter dated Sunday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin conveyed their concerns to Israeli officials, emphasizing the necessity for changes in the current aid situation. This communication comes amidst worsening conditions in northern Gaza and reports of a recent Israeli airstrike on a hospital tent in central Gaza, which resulted in at least four fatalities.
A senior defense official indicated that the letter was prompted by a noticeable decline in assistance reaching Gaza. The official noted that a previous letter from Blinken in April prompted a positive reaction and led to tangible actions from Israeli authorities.
This latest correspondence aims to address the ongoing challenges similarly. Blinken and Austin have outlined specific requirements for Israel to continue receiving foreign military financing. Notably, they have called for an increase in the amount of aid reaching Gaza to at least 350 trucks per day. Additionally, they emphasized the need for additional humanitarian pauses and enhanced security for aid distribution sites. Israel has been given a 30-day window to respond to these stipulations.
An Israeli official acknowledged the receipt of the letter but chose not to disclose its details. This source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the diplomatic communication, confirmed that the U.S. has raised concerns regarding humanitarian issues and is exerting pressure on Israel to facilitate a more efficient flow of aid into Gaza.