In a recent development, the Israeli government has approved the reopening of the Erez border crossing, a crucial step to allow the flow of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. This decision came just a day after United States President Joe Biden acknowledged that Israel is responding to his demand for actions aimed at alleviating humanitarian suffering in Gaza.
President Biden mentioned in his remarks that he had specifically requested Israel to take the steps they are now implementing. When asked by a reporter if he had threatened to halt military aid to Israel, Biden responded, “I asked them to do what they’re doing.” This statement followed a tense phone call between Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during which Biden warned that the US would reconsider its policy if Israel did not take concrete steps to protect civilian lives and aid workers.
The backdrop of this decision was the tragic incident where seven food relief workers associated with the World Central Kitchen were killed in Israeli strikes. In response to Biden’s call for action, Israel swiftly declared the reopening of the Erez crossing, situated on Gaza’s northern border, and allowed the temporary delivery of aid through the Ashdod port. Most of this aid is then transported by truck to Erez to facilitate its entry into Gaza.
Israel also announced an increase in aid entering Jordan through the Kerem Shalom border crossing. White House spokesperson Kirby, when questioned about the adequacy of Israel’s actions, termed the overnight moves as “good starts” and mentioned that they would observe Israel’s implementation of these measures closely.
Similarly, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking at a press conference for the US-European Union Trade and Technology Council in Belgium, emphasized the importance of tangible results. Blinken stated, “These are positive developments, but the real test is results and that’s what we’re looking to see in the coming days and weeks.”
The Erez Crossing, also known as Beit Hanoun, serves as a vital link between Israel and the northern Gaza Strip. Its reopening marks a significant step, especially considering Israel’s tight control over land crossings and its previous ban on all air and sea travel to and from Gaza.
Before the recent conflict, Gaza had two functional crossings: Erez for the movement of people and Kerem Shalom for goods. The reopening of Erez brings hope for increased humanitarian aid and assistance to the people of Gaza, who have faced significant challenges, particularly in the wake of recent hostilities.
As Israel and the international community monitor the situation closely, the focus remains on ensuring the sustained flow of aid into Gaza to address pressing humanitarian needs and alleviate the suffering of civilians in the region.”Biden Stresses Request to Israel as Erez Crossing Reopens for Gaza Aid”
