The Biden administration has intensified its criticism of Israel for failing to make significant improvements in humanitarian conditions in Gaza as a 30-day deadline approaches for Israeli officials to meet specified requirements or face potential restrictions on military assistance.
The administration has also condemned recent acts of violence against Palestinians in the West Bank by extremist Jewish settlers, emphasizing the need for accountability for those responsible.
State Department spokesman Matthew Miller expressed disappointment in Israel's progress, giving them a 'fail' grade for not meeting the conditions outlined in a letter sent by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin last month. The letter called for an increase in aid deliveries to Gaza, including a minimum of 350 trucks per day carrying essential supplies. However, as of the latest U.N. figures, only an average of 71 trucks per day were entering Gaza by the end of October.
Despite ongoing discussions and efforts to urge Israel to expedite humanitarian assistance to Gaza, the situation has not shown significant improvement according to Miller. The administration is closely monitoring the situation and will assess further actions once the deadline expires next week.
In response to Israel's decision to terminate an agreement facilitating the work of the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), the U.S. expressed deep concern. The Israeli government's move to sever ties with UNRWA was opposed by Blinken and Austin, who emphasized the agency's crucial role in providing aid in Gaza.
Additionally, the U.S. raised alarm over escalating attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinians in the West Bank, calling on Israel to prevent extremist settler violence and protect all communities in accordance with international obligations. The U.S. has imposed sanctions this year against Israeli groups and individuals involved in violence against Palestinian civilians, with warnings of potential further actions.
The head of UNICEF has warned of the dire humanitarian situation in North Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for assistance to prevent disease, famine, and casualties among the vulnerable population, especially children.
Amidst these challenges, the Biden administration continues to engage with Israeli officials to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and promote stability in the region.
