In a show of concern and solidarity, more than 30 House Democrats, including former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have signed a letter addressed to President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, urging them to reconsider the recent authorization of weapons transfers to Israel. The letter comes just days after an Israeli airstrike tragically claimed the lives of seven aid workers.

Obtained and first reported by NBC News, the letter highlights the need for a full investigation into the airstrike and calls for a temporary halt to offensive arms transfers until the findings are complete. The lawmakers emphasized that this decision should also be contingent upon Israel's ability to prevent harm to innocent civilians, including aid workers, and to facilitate the transportation and delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

The tragic incident, which sparked international outrage, saw seven workers from World Central Kitchen lose their lives. Israeli authorities have acknowledged the mistake, stating that the airstrike was unintentional and expressing their regret. However, the lawmakers described the incident as a "shockingly unacceptable mistake."

Israel's Joint Chiefs of Staff have conducted a preliminary investigation and determined that the military mistakenly identified the workers as armed Hamas fighters. In response to the incident, Israel announced on Thursday that it would be opening a border crossing in northern Gaza.

Secretary Blinken, commenting on the developments, described Israel's actions as "positive" but stated that the United States would carefully observe the country's next steps in the coming days and months. President Biden also emphasized that U.S. policy concerning Gaza would depend on Israel's immediate actions.

The letter sent by the House Democrats acknowledges the Biden administration's recent efforts to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza but stresses that these efforts alone are not enough to meet the overwhelming needs on the ground. The lawmakers assert their support for an independent investigation into the deaths of the aid workers and seek justice for the World Central Kitchen heroes.

Speaker Pelosi's spokesperson, Aaron Bennett, affirmed her support for an independent investigation, emphasizing her belief in President Biden's judgement on how to proceed. The letter serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency in addressing the tragic loss of life and ensuring the well-being of innocent civilians.

As the Biden administration faces pressure from within its own party, the decision regarding arms transfers to Israel hangs in the balance. The world awaits further developments and hopes for a just resolution that prioritizes the safety and well-being of all individuals affected by the conflict in Gaza.