U.S. Demands Israel to Improve Humanitarian Situation in Gaza
The recent letter issued by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has put pressure on Israel to take concrete steps to enhance the humanitarian conditions in Gaza within 30 days. The U.S. is urging Israel to facilitate regular aid transfers, grant access to Red Cross visits for Palestinian detainees, and cease legislation that could obstruct the operations of the Palestinian aid agency UNRWA in Israel.
Impact on Aid Delivery
Despite previous assurances from Israel in March and April that led to aid delivery improvements, the amount of aid entering Gaza has decreased by over 50%. The letter highlights the significant drop in aid deliveries, raising concerns about the humanitarian situation in the region.
Implications for ICC
The leaked letter could provide crucial evidence for ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan’s claims that Israel obstructed humanitarian aid, potentially supporting the issuance of arrest warrants against Israeli officials for alleged starvation offenses. The international community’s sentiment against Israel may expedite the court’s decision.
Israel’s Response
Israeli officials deny any change in their aid policy to Gaza, attributing the U.S. letter to a lack of confidence in Israel’s intentions. Recent announcements by Israel regarding aid deliveries aim to address concerns raised by the U.S.