President Biden has praised Israeli authorities for improving aid delivery to Gaza but has also emphasized that more needs to be done, according to a statement made on Wednesday. The President offered a measured assessment of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s efforts in fulfilling promises made last week.
During a call with Mr. Netanyahu last Thursday, President Biden warned that the United States could withhold support for Israel unless more was done to protect civilians and ensure adequate supplies for Gaza. While acknowledging that Israel has made some progress in providing access to food, medicine, and other critical supplies, President Biden stated that additional action is still expected.
Mr. Netanyahu has committed to increasing the number of aid trucks entering Gaza and opening another border crossing into the territory. However, the President emphasized that more needs to be done, particularly in the north of Gaza.
The United Nations has reported that the number of aid trucks entering Gaza has not significantly changed from last week, while Israel claims that the number of trucks reaching Gaza has increased sharply.
President Biden did not specify what actions would be taken if Israel fails to meet his demands. However, he urged Hamas to consider a proposal put forward by the United States for a six-week cease-fire in exchange for the release of hostages seized on Oct. 7 and hundreds of Palestinians held in Israeli prisons on terrorism charges.
The President reiterated his commitment to securing the release of the hostages, including American citizens, and emphasized the urgent need for a cease-fire. Vice President Kamala Harris has met with family members of some of the hostages to discuss the ongoing situation.
“We’ll get these hostages home where they belong but also bring back a six-week cease-fire that we need now,” President Biden stated. The situation in Gaza remains a key focus for the Biden administration, with efforts ongoing to ensure the safety and well-being of civilians in the region.
