Biden and Netanyahu Agree on Continued Humanitarian Aid to Gaza
ICARO Media Group
In a phone call on Sunday, President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated the commitment to allow a "continued flow" of humanitarian assistance into Gaza, according to the White House. The leaders discussed the recent convoys of aid that have reached Palestinians in need and expressed their determination to ensure that critical assistance continues to reach the people of Gaza.
The first two convoys of humanitarian aid successfully crossed the border into Gaza over the weekend, following the opening of the border crossing between Egypt and Gaza on Saturday. These convoys, carrying food and medical supplies, are being distributed to Palestinians who have been severely affected by the ongoing blockade.
U.S. Special Envoy for Middle East Humanitarian Issues, David Satterfield, stated during an interview on MSNBC's "Inside with Jen Psaki," that another convoy of 15 trucks was expected to enter Gaza on Sunday evening. This aid delivery is crucial to address the urgent needs of the population in Gaza, which has been pushed to the brink of starvation due to the blockade.
The decision by Israel to allow the "continued flow" of humanitarian aid comes after Hamas's October 7 terrorist attack, where more than 1,300 people were killed and around 200 persons were abducted. Israel has been concerned about the supplies falling into the hands of Hamas militants, thus imposing restrictions on the flow of food and medical aid. However, the agreed-upon continued humanitarian assistance is aimed at providing relief to the innocent civilians in Gaza.
According to Cindy McCain, executive director of the U.N.'s World Food Program, the ongoing blockade has pushed Gaza's 2.3 million residents to the brink of starvation. The dire humanitarian situation in Gaza has raised concern among international organizations and agencies, emphasizing the urgent need for sustained assistance.
The call between President Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu also addressed the efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages, including U.S. citizens, held by Hamas. They highlighted the importance of providing safe passage for U.S. citizens and other civilians in Gaza who wish to depart.
The agreement on the continued flow of humanitarian aid is a crucial step towards alleviating the suffering of the people in Gaza, who have been experiencing severe hardships. The aid convoys signify the commitment of the international community, led by the United States and Israel, to address the urgent needs of the population and provide necessary assistance during these challenging times.