In a statement on Friday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken lauded Israel's recent efforts to increase aid to civilians in Gaza while emphasizing that more needs to be done to meet expectations. Blinken stressed the importance of opening additional border crossings to assist the trapped civilians, but also urged the Israeli government to take concrete steps in safeguarding the well-being of both civilians and aid workers, according to The Associated Press.

Israel's announcement on Thursday regarding the opening of the key border crossing in northern Gaza was welcomed by Blinken as a positive development. The Israeli government stated that the immediate opening of the Erez border crossing was necessary to avert a humanitarian crisis and to ensure the continuation of the ongoing conflict. Blinken, however, emphasized that tangible results are the true measure of success and will be closely monitored in the coming days and months.

Highlighting the need for a safer delivery of aid to and within Gaza, Blinken called for a "better system for deconfliction and coordination." The U.S. seeks to ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches its intended recipients without jeopardizing their safety, as reported by the AP. Furthermore, Blinken insisted on an independent and fully transparent investigation into the deaths of seven World Central Kitchen workers, who tragically lost their lives during a series of Israeli airstrikes earlier this week. This plea aligns with international criticism of the airstrikes, which prompted the Biden administration to demand significant changes in the ongoing conflict.

The escalating situation prompted President Joe Biden to engage in a conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday, their first call since the deadly strikes occurred. Biden conveyed his displeasure with the airstrikes, calling them "unacceptable" and urging Netanyahu to initiate a cease-fire to secure the release of remaining hostages. The President also stated that future U.S. support for Israel would be contingent on improved measures to safeguard workers and civilians.

Hours after the conversation, Israel announced its commitment to increasing the flow of humanitarian aid, including the opening of the border crossing, according to the AP.

The international community will be closely monitoring Israel's actions in the days ahead, expecting concrete steps to protect civilians and aid workers as efforts continue to address the ongoing conflict. The United States remains committed to supporting the cause and striving for a resolution that ensures the safety, well-being, and humanitarian needs of all those affected in Gaza.