In a significant diplomatic move, the United States has issued a warning to Israel, demanding an improvement in humanitarian aid access to Gaza within 30 days or face potential reductions in military assistance. This letter, sent on Sunday, is the strongest known written caution from the U.S. amid a renewed Israeli offensive in northern Gaza that has resulted in substantial civilian casualties. The U.S. expressed grave concerns over the humanitarian crisis, noting that nearly 90% of aid movements between northern and southern Gaza were blocked last month.
Israeli officials have acknowledged receipt of the letter and are reportedly taking its contents seriously, intending to discuss the issues raised with U.S. representatives. While Israel claims its military operations are solely aimed at Hamas and that humanitarian aid is still being allowed, recent reports indicate that the situation is dire for the 400,000 Palestinians in northern Gaza, who are running out of essential supplies. Following a two-week pause, 30 aid lorries from the World Food Programme recently entered the region, but experts warn that much more is needed to meet the population’s survival needs.
The U.S. letter, signed by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, emphasizes the urgent need for Israel to take concrete actions to reverse the worsening conditions in Gaza. It specifies that Israel must enable a minimum of 350 aid lorries daily across all major crossings and end the isolation of northern Gaza. Failure to act within the specified timeframe may have significant implications for U.S. military support, as existing laws restrict assistance to countries that obstruct U.S. humanitarian aid.
As the Israeli offensive continues, civilian life in Gaza becomes increasingly precarious. Many families are trapped amid ongoing violence, with reports of escalating casualties from airstrikes. Humanitarian organizations are sounding alarms about the overwhelming fear and suffering among the population, while Israeli military operations aim to root out Hamas fighters. With the conflict escalating, the international community watches closely, concerned about the humanitarian fallout and the implications for regional stability.
