### U.S. Expresses Concerns Over Israeli Legislation Impacting Gaza Crisis

The Biden administration has voiced significant concerns regarding two new bills passed by the Israeli Knesset, warning that these laws could worsen the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and adversely impact Palestinians in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. A State Department spokesperson communicated these apprehensions to the press recently.

The issue is critical as the United States, along with other Western nations, had urged Israel to reconsider these legislative moves against the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). The enactment of these laws may intensify calls within the U.S. to reconsider its military support for Israel.

Earlier this month, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin issued a directive to Israeli leaders, insisting on pressing reforms to ameliorate the humanitarian conditions in Gaza. They indicated that failure to comply within 30 days might jeopardize the ongoing U.S. weapons supply to Israel.

In a recent, private meeting in Israel, Secretary Blinken personally discussed the contentious bills with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging him to prevent their passage.

The first of the controversial bills restricts UNRWA operations in Israeli territories, significantly impacting its activities in East Jerusalem and, by extension, its operations in the West Bank managed from Jerusalem. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller highlighted that the enactment of these bills could trigger consequences under U.S. law and influence U.S. policies.

Despite the 90-day period before these new laws take effect, they were passed without a proposed alternative by the Israeli government to ensure the continuous delivery of humanitarian aid and services by UNRWA.

In a renewed admonition, the Biden administration again sent a letter to Israeli leaders on Monday, reiterating the need for swift action to enhance humanitarian conditions in Gaza or risk impacts on U.S. military support.

This situation arises as Israel continues to lean heavily on U.S. military aid amid ongoing conflicts on multiple fronts. The humanitarian emergency in northern Gaza has drawn global attention, with dire warnings about the deteriorating situation.

Despite assurances from Israeli officials that immediate actions will be taken to address the crisis following the U.S. ultimatum, the passing of these bills could significantly complicate the humanitarian landscape in the region.