During his visit to Israel amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, US President Joe Biden has declared a humanitarian aid package of $100 million for both Gaza and the West Bank. This decision comes in the wake of a deadly airstrike at Gaza’s Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital, with Biden affirming that the aid will assist over one million affected Palestinians.
On his social media handle ‘X’, Biden shared, “I just announced $100 million for humanitarian assistance in Gaza and the West Bank. This money will support over 1 million displaced and conflict-affected Palestinians. And we will have mechanisms in place so this aid reaches those in need – not Hamas or terrorist groups.”
Highlighting the distinction between Israel and terrorist groups, Biden emphasized, “When conflicts flare, you live by the law of war which sets us apart from the terrorists as we believe in the fundamental dignity of every human life.”
Recognizing the urgent needs of the people in Gaza, Biden urged the Israeli cabinet to permit the delivery of life-saving humanitarian assistance directly to civilians in Gaza, with a stipulation that the aid must not fall into the hands of Hamas. He also confirmed Israel’s agreement to facilitate the transfer of humanitarian aid from Egypt to Gaza.
Biden warned that any diversion or misappropriation of the assistance by Hamas would demonstrate their disregard for the welfare of the Palestinian people, potentially obstructing future international aid efforts. Ensuring ongoing support for Israel, he affirmed, “We are going to make sure you have what you need to protect your people, to defend your nation. For decades, we have ensured Israel’s qualitative military edge.”
The President pledged to request an unprecedented support package for Israel’s defense from the US Congress, including the continued supply of the Iron Dome defense system and the deployment of additional military assets to the region. Stressing the distinction between Hamas and the Palestinian populace, he condemned Hamas’s use of innocent families as human shields, highlighting the suffering endured by the Palestinian people.
Expressing his dismay over the tragic events at Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital, Biden condemned the rocket attack and reiterated the United States’ commitment to safeguarding civilian lives during the conflict. In a telephonic conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Biden assured unwavering support for Israel in its fight against terrorism. Netanyahu, in turn, denounced the attack on the hospital, emphasizing that the blame should be directed towards the terrorist groups responsible for the conflict.
“We have asked them (civilians) to move to safer areas. We will continue to work with you, Mr. President (Biden), to ensure that the minimal requirements are met, and we will continue to work together to get our hostages out,” Netanyahu asserted.
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