President Biden commended Israeli authorities for improving aid delivery to Gaza but emphasized that more needs to be done. In a call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Mr. Biden warned that the United States could withhold support for Israel unless it took further steps to protect civilians and ensure adequate supplies for Gaza. Israel has since committed to increasing the number of aid trucks entering Gaza and opening another border crossing into the territory. While Mr. Biden acknowledged that Israel has made some progress in providing access to critical supplies, he stressed that additional action is required.
Despite Israel’s claims that the number of aid trucks reaching Gaza has significantly increased, the United Nations maintains that there has been no significant change from last week. Mr. Biden, however, has left unclear what steps he will take if Israel fails to meet his demands. At a news conference with the Prime Minister of Japan, Mr. Biden did not address whether future U.S. arms shipments to Israel would be contingent on the Israeli government’s response. Nonetheless, Mr. Biden urged Hamas to accept a proposal from the United States to release hostages in exchange for a six-week cease-fire and the release of Palestinians held in Israeli prisons on terrorism charges.
The proposal includes the release of more than 130 hostages, including several American citizens, who were seized by Hamas on Oct. 7. Vice President Kamala Harris met with family members of some of the hostages to demonstrate the U.S. government’s commitment to securing their release. Mr. Biden emphasized the urgency of reaching a six-week cease-fire, highlighting the need for immediate action. He called on Hamas to respond to the proposal put forward by the United States as a means to de-escalate the conflict and ensure the safe return of hostages.
As the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, Mr. Biden underscored the importance of continued aid delivery and access to essential supplies. While Israel has taken steps to enhance aid distribution, Mr. Netanyahu must fulfill the commitments he made to Mr. Biden. The President’s measured assessment of Israel’s actions reflects a delicate balance between supporting a key Middle Eastern ally and holding them accountable for their conduct during the conflict. Mr. Biden’s efforts to negotiate a cease-fire and secure the release of hostages demonstrate his commitment to resolving the crisis and promoting peace in the region.
Moving forward, it remains to be seen how Israel and Hamas will respond to the proposed cease-fire and hostage release agreement. Mr. Biden’s engagement with both parties reflects a broader strategy to de-escalate tensions and address the immediate humanitarian needs in Gaza. By emphasizing the importance of additional action from Israel and urging Hamas to accept the proposed agreement, Mr. Biden is pursuing a diplomatic solution to the ongoing conflict. The President’s efforts underscore the United States’ role as a mediator in the region and highlight the complexities of addressing the multifaceted challenges facing Gaza and its residents.
