The Biden administration has cautioned Israel that its treatment of humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip could affect U.S. policy. President Joe Biden’s administration reiterated this warning in a recent letter to Israeli officials, urging them to enhance humanitarian conditions in Gaza. The letter, delivered by U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, emphasized the need for Israel to increase support for humanitarian aid reaching Gaza. The letter, initially intended to be private, was leaked to the press, prompting State Department spokesman Matthew Miller to confirm its contents.
The communication highlighted a concern that Israel’s support for humanitarian assistance in Gaza has significantly decreased, prompting the U.S. officials to call for immediate action to address this issue. The letter also referenced potential implications for U.S. policy under NSM-20 and relevant U.S. law if the situation is not rectified. NSM-20 refers to a presidential policy memorandum implemented by President Biden in February, emphasizing the importance of countries receiving U.S. arms transfers committing to supporting humanitarian efforts.
While the specific consequences were not disclosed, the U.S. officials stressed the urgency of improving humanitarian conditions in Gaza. The letter outlined specific actions Israel must take, including facilitating the daily entry of humanitarian supplies into Gaza and coordinating with humanitarian organizations to ensure safe deliveries. Additionally, Israeli forces were urged to allow internally displaced refugees to relocate inland during winter and to cease isolating parts of northern Gaza.
The warning letter coincided with reports of Israeli military leaders considering a new strategy to combat Hamas in Gaza, known as the “Generals’ Plan.” This plan, which involves giving civilians deadlines to evacuate designated areas, was met with strong opposition from the U.S., with Miller deeming it unacceptable.
Recent reports indicate that aid deliveries into Gaza have declined significantly, raising concerns about the humanitarian situation in the region. Despite denials from COGAT, the Israeli body responsible for facilitating aid crossings, U.N. officials reported a decrease in aid entering Gaza. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in significant casualties, underscoring the urgent need for improved humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
Hamas has caused injuries to thousands more people during the attacks and has also kidnapped another 250 individuals, with about 100 of them still being held captive in Gaza.
The Gaza Health Ministry has reported that over 42,000 individuals have been killed by Israel in Gaza throughout the duration of the war. The ministry does not distinguish between combatants and noncombatants, but has noted that slightly more than half of the deceased are women and children.
The Associated Press contributed to this article.
