- Blinken urges Netanyahu to boost aid to Gaza.
- Focus on humanitarian assistance amidst ceasefire efforts.
- International pressure mounts for action in the region.
Eko hot blog reports that U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has commenced a series of talks with Israeli leaders, emphasizing the necessity of enhancing humanitarian aid to Gaza while concurrently urging Hamas to accept a ceasefire deal aimed at releasing hostages.
After visits to Riyadh and Amman earlier this week, Blinken has landed in Israel, marking the final leg of his extensive Middle East tour.
This marks Blinken’s seventh visit to the region, which has been embroiled in conflict since October 7th, when Hamas initiated attacks on Israel.
Blinken’s primary focus in Israel is to press the Israeli government to implement specific measures that will facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid into the densely populated Gaza Strip.
Blinken urges to increase aid to Gaza
Addressing the dire situation, Blinken emphasized, “Even as we’re working with relentless determination to achieve a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages, we must also prioritize assistance to the people of Gaza who are suffering due to the actions of Hamas.”
The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and destruction. According to Israeli sources, Hamas’ assault on October 7th claimed the lives of 1,200 individuals and led to the abduction of 250 others.
In response, Israel launched a sustained offensive on Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 34,000 Palestinians, according to local health authorities.
They UN has warned that more than a million people in Gaza are at risk of famine after six months of war.
Blinken’s discussions with Netanyahu on aid come following a stern warning issued by U.S. President Joe Biden to address civilian harm, humanitarian suffering, and the safety of aid workers.
Biden has hinted at the possibility of adjusting Washington’s policy towards Israel if these concerns are not addressed, leveraging U.S. aid to influence Israeli military conduct.
Echoing international concerns, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres acknowledged incremental progress in averting a potential famine in northern Gaza but urged Israel to intensify its efforts.
As efforts continue to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the international community closely monitors developments in the region.
Blinken Urges Netanyahu: Increase Aid to Gaza Amidst Ceasefire Push