US Assessment of Humanitarian Aid to Gaza Amid Ongoing Crisis
The United States has concluded that Israel is not obstructing humanitarian aid to Gaza, despite the dire conditions reported on the ground. Following a deadline set by the Biden administration for Israel to enhance the flow of aid, the State Department stated that while improvements are necessary, they have observed progress. As a result, the US will continue its military assistance to Israel without imposing restrictions. State Department spokesman Vedant Patel emphasized that the US has not found evidence of Israel violating laws governing foreign military assistance, particularly the Leahy Act, which prohibits aid to forces involved in serious human rights violations.
However, this perspective sharply contrasts with the grim reality faced by civilians in Gaza. Reports indicate that many residents are experiencing severe food shortages, with humanitarian organizations warning of an imminent famine. Civilians like Umm Muhammad Al-At’out and Abu Ahmed Subaih have shared harrowing accounts of starvation and desperation, highlighting the urgent need for aid that is not reaching those in need. The World Health Organization has raised alarms about the deteriorating humanitarian situation, particularly in northern Gaza, where ongoing military operations and evacuation orders have exacerbated the crisis.
Humanitarian Organizations Call for Action
Despite the US government's stance, humanitarian organizations have criticized Israel for failing to meet the necessary criteria for supporting humanitarian efforts. A coalition of eight organizations, including Oxfam and Save the Children, has reported that approximately 800,000 people in Gaza are living under conditions close to famine. They argue that Israel's actions have not only failed to comply with US demands but have also worsened the humanitarian crisis significantly.
Aid agencies have noted that the average number of trucks entering Gaza has plummeted to just 58 per day, a stark decline from the pre-war average of around 500. The Israeli agency COGAT reported that while some aid has been delivered, much remains stuck at border crossings due to bureaucratic delays and ongoing military operations. The situation has led to increased looting of aid supplies, further complicating the distribution of essential goods.
As the US continues to monitor the situation, the humanitarian community is calling for immediate action to address the critical needs of the Palestinian population in Gaza, emphasizing that the current level of aid is insufficient to prevent widespread starvation.
