:quality(85)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/infobae/7BH4VMXKRJT6EPVAHVJI5UVPLE.jpg "Biden told Netanyahu that US support will depend on measures Israel takes to protect civilians in Gaza")
President Biden Demands Israeli Measures to Protect Civilians and Aid Workers in Gaza Conflict
US President Joe Biden urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to take immediate steps to protect civilians and aid workers in Gaza during a phone call on Thursday. This comes after an Israeli airstrike killed seven aid workers in the Gaza Strip, further straining relations between the two leaders.
According to the White House, Biden emphasized the need for Israel to announce and implement specific, measurable actions to address civilian harm, humanitarian suffering, and the safety of humanitarian aid workers. The US president made it clear that American support for Israel’s actions in Gaza will be contingent on their response to these concerns.
Additionally, Biden stressed the importance of a ceasefire and called on Israel to reach an agreement without delay. This conversation took place as World Central Kitchen, an organization founded by chef José Andrés, demanded an investigation into the incident that claimed the lives of their staff members, including a US citizen.
Despite ongoing tensions, the US has continued to provide weapons and ammunition to Israel, including recently approved sales of bombs. The Pentagon also expressed outrage over the killings of aid workers and urged Israel to increase aid to Gaza, particularly to communities at risk of famine.
Furthermore, discussions between the US and Israel included concerns about a potential military operation in Rafah, with the Biden administration urging Israel to prioritize the evacuation and safety of Palestinian civilians in the area.
The conflict in Gaza has also involved threats from Iran, with the Israeli military increasing its strength and recruiting reserve soldiers in response to security concerns. Meanwhile, domestic pressures and protests have mounted against Netanyahu, who faces demands for early elections from political rivals.
The Gaza conflict, which began with a Hamas attack in early October, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides and ongoing tensions surrounding hostages held by Palestinian terrorists. Negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of hostages have stalled, as both sides continue to blame each other for the escalation of violence.
As the situation in Gaza remains volatile, the international community, including the US, is closely monitoring developments and calling for measures to protect civilians and aid workers amid the ongoing conflict.