President Biden issued a clear message to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that future U.S. backing for Israel’s actions in Gaza hinges on implementing new measures to safeguard civilians and aid workers.
Their conversation, lasting around 30 minutes, followed Israeli airstrikes in Gaza that resulted in the deaths of seven food aid workers, adding further strain to their already complicated relationship.
Although the White House didn’t specify potential changes in U.S. policy, it hinted at possibilities such as modifying military sales to Israel and diplomatic support globally.
Joe Biden and Benjamin Netanyahu (Credits: The New Yorker)
Netanyahu’s office disclosed that his Security Cabinet approved immediate steps to increase the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, including reopening a critical crossing destroyed in a previous attack by Hamas.
Biden emphasized the necessity for Israel to take specific, measurable actions to address civilian harm, humanitarian suffering, and the safety of aid workers, signaling that U.S. policy toward Gaza would be contingent on Israel’s response.
Both leaders discussed the urgency of securing an immediate cease-fire, with Netanyahu’s office announcing plans to reopen the Erez crossing and facilitate increased aid shipments into Gaza.
Benjamin Netanyahu (Credits: NDTV)
The World Central Kitchen called for an independent investigation into the Israeli airstrikes that claimed the lives of its staff members, while Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned of potential shifts in U.S. support if Israel fails to make adjustments.
The Pentagon also confirmed plans to construct a temporary pier off the coast of Gaza to facilitate the influx of aid into the region, with Israel agreeing to provide security during the aid transfer process.
As for the ongoing conflict in Gaza, experts note that the Israeli military campaign has caused significant devastation and casualties, leading to increased international scrutiny and calls for a resolution to the violence.
