US ramps up pressure on Israel to increase Gaza aid
Senior US officials have reiterated their demand for Israel to significantly increase the amount of aid entering the Gaza Strip, following a strongly-worded letter warning that American weapons funding could be impacted if improvements are not made.
The letter, co-signed by US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, emphasized the need for Israel to take specific steps to address the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Over the past three days, aid has been able to reach northern Gaza after a two-week stretch in which the UN reported no deliveries.
Despite this progress, the Pentagon and State Department continue to stress the importance of sustained aid flow. In an overnight call, Austin and Israeli Defence Minister discussed aid delivery.
US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield underscored Washington’s vigilance, ensuring Israel’s actions do not amount to a “policy of starvation.”
Israel denies intentionally blocking food, citing its ongoing operation against regrouping Hamas fighters in northern Gaza. However, residents in encircled Jabalia report severe food shortages.
The international community remains concerned about Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by Israel’s ground offensive. The US is closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need for unhindered aid access to alleviate suffering.
