US Urges Israel to Increase Gaza Aid Efforts Amid Famine Imminent, Blames UN for Distribution Failure
ICARO Media Group
In a press briefing at the White House, US Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre expressed concern over the ongoing hunger crisis in Gaza, stating that Israel has not done enough to resolve the situation. She warned that famine could be imminent if more humanitarian assistance isn't delivered promptly.
Jean-Pierre highlighted some positive steps taken by Israel, including the commitment to open the Erez Crossing, allowing goods to be unloaded at the Ashdod Port, and increasing aid deliveries from Jordan. She acknowledged that over 1,000 trucks filled with humanitarian aid have entered Gaza in the past few days, with 300 trucks arriving just yesterday. However, she stressed that these efforts are still insufficient and called for continued progress and acceleration.
The Biden administration has issued a stern warning to Israel, demanding swift action to ensure the proper delivery of humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza. Failure to comply could lead to a change in US policy regarding the war. The US government has expressed grave concern over reports of Palestinians facing starvation.
Jean-Pierre referred to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, stating that their latest report indicates an imminent famine in Gaza. In response, the US is committed to doing everything possible to bring in aid, reflecting the severity of the situation. The US will continue to exert pressure on Israel to increase the flow of aid into Gaza.
However, the office of the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) pointed fingers at the United Nations, accusing them of failing to distribute the humanitarian goods. COGAT revealed that there are currently 600 aid trucks awaiting collection by the UN on the Gaza side of the Kerem Shalom Crossing, preventing any further trucks from entering the Gaza Strip. They stressed that Israel has fulfilled its part by increasing the flow of goods and placed the responsibility of distribution on the UN.
During questioning in Washington, Jean-Pierre emphasized that the Biden administration's focus is on ensuring assistance reaches Gaza. She mentioned the challenges faced by humanitarian workers due to the ongoing conflict between Hamas and the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Just two weeks ago, seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen were tragically killed in an accidental IDF airstrike.
As the situation in Gaza grows increasingly dire, the US is placing pressure on Israel and the UN to collaborate more effectively in delivering vital humanitarian aid to the Palestinians in Gaza. Immediate action is crucial to prevent a devastating famine from further endangering the lives of the people in the region.